Acududeman's suggestion is excellent. Really, with that kind of a budget, I'd just enjoy the process and go out and audition whatever you can find locally. If you buy both the pre-pro and amp from the same dealer, you have some bargaining power. I have the Integra 9.4 and love it, even though it only cost me $1600. My Parasound 1205A amp was also found at a bargain price, but both sound great to my ears. With the price drop on the B&K and the upcoming new line of Rotels, you should have plenty of options that might provide you with great sonics. Still, acududeman's suggestion is, imo, first rate.