Beginners Tube Amp Recommendations

I wouldn't say tube amp are high maintenance. I do own 4 tube amps and they never had any problem or require any re-tubing in the past 4 years.
Depends on how much power you're looking to get and how much bass you want and which output tube you want to use.
I personally prefer at least 30~35 Watts/ch for 87db to 84db.
I also prefer vintage amps like the MAC MC240, Lafayette KT550, Harmon Kardon Citation II, Heathkit W5M.. there are too many choices.

Have you tried the Jolida Hybrid integrated amps? I hear that they are very good and you can get one new for $300 to $500 dollars.

The JD102 Jolida Tube amp is also a great starting point. I am looking for a used one now!

Anthem INT 2 can be had in your price range. Tubed pre section with solid state power section. 90 watts per channel should do you just nicely. Just be aware that the volume pot is not the greatest...

My wife's system has the Luxman 491 integrated hybrid which is not the ultimate in definition, but sounds very nice and holds its own with power solidly at 90wpc. We changed the stock tubes to RCAs and hardwired an LAT International PC and it sounds real nice.

Hawthorne Stereo in Seattle has a nice demo for $499 which may be negotiable. Good luck.

Check out Audio Aero Prima integrated amps. They are a hybrid design with a single tube preamp and solid state out. Very nice sounding amp. They do come up occasionaly (preowned) with prices well in your range. Had mine for over a year with no complaints. Good Luck.