Best Integrated Amp $1-2k range

Try to audition Electrocompaniet and Plinius.

The Sim I-5080, new this year, is a fine 80 wpc integrated at $1299.

There a number of good ones out there, especially if you shop competative prices. Believe it or not, the Krell 300i can be had new for very near your top price point and around $1500 if you will accept a 9/10. I also like the Roksan Caspian (msrp $1500)which I've seen as a barely used demom for $795. However, my best buy recommendation is the Classe` CAP 151. Msrp is $2k. I can tell you where to get a new-sealed-in-box unit with full warranty from a authorized dealer for $1496 delivered!

I purchased the Roksan Capsian mentioned by Shoff and it sounds great with Spendors. I auditioned and did not like the Audio Refinement.

I own the NEAR's as well and drive them with an Anthem Integrated 2 fed by a Sonic Frontiers SFCD-1 with very good results. My room is not very big 14 x 16. the NEAR's are wonderful and the hybrid Anthem is a nice unit.