With a $2k budget, I'd go with the Swarovski EL 10x42 as top choice. The Vortex Razor UHD binos are also top notch, and a bit cheaper than the Swaros at around $1,500 new.

I will say, one pair of binos i've been shockingly surprised with are the Cabelas Euro HD binos. They are $999, with glass made by Meopta, and they stack up very well against my Vortex Razor and Swaro binos. They punch far above their price tag.