Hate to be contrarian -- and forgive me if you've already considered all of this -- but I might argue that "the best of both worlds" won't be found in a single box. (Actually, may be more than two worlds, two channel preamp, multi-channel preamp, two-channel DAC, multi-channel DACs, AND video switching...).
Rather than sink the whole budget into Classe/Theta/Meridian (or Krell, etc.), you could put < $2k-ish into something like an Integra AVP (which will give you HDMI connectivity and all the latest HT codecs) and then put the remainder into a top-flight two-channel preamp. Or split between a preamp and a stand-alone two-channel DAC. You could also run video straight to your display, rather than paying for broadcast-grade video switching in the AVP. Ive always assumed that the best of both worlds was best achieved by running this type of hybrid system (with the main preouts from the AVP into a HT bypass on the two-channel pre for integration). Certainly more complicated, but coming from a professed gearhead an excuse for more boxes is always welcome
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