I currently use a Kenwood R2000 and am considering upgrading to a new
rig.

Has anyone here used an amateur radio transceiver for shortwave
listening? I'm considering the Yaesu FT-950, FT-2000 or IC-7400 and
would be interested to hear how they sound relative to a dedicated
receiver such as the R2000.

The ICR75, IC8500 and AOR-7030 seem to be less value for money
relative to amateur radio transceivers as they incorporate less
features and lack performance.