Kona Precept
http://www.konaworld.com/precept.cfm
Or the Precept DL
http://www.konaworld.com/precept_dl.cfm
Both fall within your budget and Kona makes an amazing bike at great prices. Their customer support is amazing as well and all their bikes carry lifetime warranties on the frames. I prefer the 27.5" to the 29ers too.
If you're wanting a cheaper hardtail, Ive heard great things about the Trek X-Caliber 8. Its a 29er though.
http://www.trekbikes.com/us/en/bikes...29/x_caliber_8
Not a big fan of Giants.