I agree with Martian.. At that budget get customs.

Just like a custom frame, tell him/her what you're looking for and work with them on all the pros n cons.

Don't know where you are but have heard good things about the following builders (though I haven't been able to swallow spending the coin to drop for customs so I don't have personal experience with any of these folks):

Joe Young (http://www.youngwheels.com)
Mike Garcia (http://www.oddsandendos.com).
David Thomas (http://speeddream.com/)
People have also been happy w/ Excel Sports

Let us know what ya end up with!