It's outside your price range, but a
Yamaha RX-Z9 is pretty much the ultimate Yamaha high powered A/V receiver. Over 160 watts per channel, and that's into 7 channels, not 2. Into 2 channels, the Z9 will output over 200 watts into 8 Ohms and 380 watts into 4 Ohms. Other than the Z9, I also agree with the other Yamaha recommendations so far, the
RX-V1, DSP-A3090 (which I own), and DSP-A1. All were TOTL Yamaha receivers when released. All worthy. I also have the RX-V3000, another good one. Plus, any of the other Yamaha RX-Z amps are good, the
RX-Z11, (
RX-Z7 and
RX-Z1) being other TOTL contenders. And don't discount the newer Aventage models, especially the various RX-A3*** series, these are the Top Aventage models. I have a RX-A3030 and love it.
Also, in the early 2000's, there was a huge push from Yamaha, Denon, Onkyo, and Pioneer, plus others, to release the ultimate high power A/V receiver. A home theater receiver war, that lasted for several years. I've never heard these, but they come highly recommended.
Onkyo TX-NR1000
Denon AVR-5805
Sunfire Ultimate II AV Receiver
Pioneer VSX-59TXi
Marantz SR9600
A couple of other contenders could be from Pioneer, and NAD. The newer Pioneer Elite "SC" series models all use digital amps. Some like them and some don't (too bright). But, Pioneer updates the "SC" models fairly often. So, there's always earlier versions that get dumped by owners, wanting to upgrade to the most current model. Finally, NAD. NAD is NAD. Never anything flashy, but always good sound. Some of their A/V gear has a rep for being a little buggy. Though for amp only use, they should be fine.
Good luck.