Calvin, in your price range I would highly recommend checking out
ACI.
Their semi-custom models are designed for custom 'in-wall' or 'i'-cabinet' installation. Check out some of these installations
here.
If you are not familiar with ACI, they have been in business for almost 30 years and have been selling direct the entire time. They have an outstanding reputation for sound, cabinet quality and customer service. If your wife does not like these, she has a very high standard indeed.