OPINIONS: solid state amps under $2000

You can satisfy both your cravings by getting a Butler TDB-2250: MOSFET-based, tube hybrid. There is one on Agon for $2200/obo - I bet you can get it for $1995, check it out:
http://www.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?ampstran&1232413976&/Butler-Audio-TDB-2250-black-ni

-RW-

I think odyssey or belles might fit what you are looking for.

Symphonic Line RG-1 or 2nd the Belles/Power Modules.

you could look at some of the older Classe gear such as the DR-9,10 and 8 series. They are well built and the sonics are excellent with Classe service being excellent to. You will have money left over for any other upgrade, or just more for software.

Blue Circle CS. You can get it new well under your budget. Don't let the low price make you think it's not worthy.