Dave, I know you said a full frame was out of the question for various reasons, but why not consider a D600
I'm about to take the plunge into one for around $1600, body only
I do have both DX and FX lenses, and intend using both bodies with different lenses for various reasons
So I end up with a variety of ranges available without having to change lenses as much, a back up if needed, and a slightly better body in the D600 over my D7000

Michael

Visit my Nikonians gallery.