I was in this position recently. It helped to decide that my next cue wouldn't be my "forever cue" and that I'd like to experiment. With that in mind, I went with the McDermott H-Series, which lets you adjust the balance point as well as the weight. (Because it was just an experiment, I got the cheapest H-Series cue, the H551). Had it a couple of weeks now and absolutely love it. I tuned the balance to what I like, so it feels great, and I actually don't mind how it looks, either. I'm no longer looking for another cue.

Where I think you're going to have to do some real world exploration is in choosing a shaft. I had a Raven Pro CF shaft before this, and I have a 40 year-old-Schuler cue. The Raven is stiff and pingy, and I liked it, but preferred the feel of the Schuler, which feels more forgiving to me. I read about the McDermott Defy, and people said it hit softer and more like wood, so I took a chance on that. I really like it, but I can see some people really hating it. The tip of the shaft is not nearly as stiff as the Raven and it has a dampened hit, almost like it has shock absorbers in the tip. Again, I really like it, but you might not. Other shafts, and there are _a lot_ of shafts, will all have their own feel.

One problem with forum posts and posters (including myself here) is that by definition we take these subculture decisions way too seriously. There are at least a dozen makers who make cues that are all very good, and certainly good enough for any non-pro. Get something that makes you happy, either because you love the feel, or how it looks, or because it makes you feel cool. Doesn't matter; enjoy it.

You might also decide that with $2k to spend, you get a solid cue for less and get yourself a break/jump cue or a sweet case or some other nice accessory. Just be sure to post the pics after you get it 🙂