This is about how much I have invested in my first rig:
Marantz PMD 671 Oade Basic Concert mod... $1,100.00
KindKables 12' 85.00
Rode NT-4 stereo mic $450.00
shock mount $75.00
mic stand $40.00
Marantz rechargable battery $100.00
rechargable batteries (Enloop) and charger (maha)$100.00
LowePro Nova 4 AW bag $70.00
CF cards $200.00
mics stuff....flashlight, velcro straps, pad & pen, etc......
Though I do not have any other rig to base my experience on, for my first set up I will have to say that I am pleased with the results so far....I have recorded indoors at clubs, out doors and covered outdoor venues and all have come out nice. The Marantz is a very well equiped piece of recording equipment with a lot of features, some of which I have yet to play around with, but now that I have gotten my feet wet so to speak, I will try recording using higher rates....
Hope some of this gives you an idea at what is available in the $2k range, but beware, even at $2k, I have caught the bug, and have looked at improving my mics! Proceed with caution!