1st- understand that your results will be massively affected by the amp's SYNERGY with your speakers.
Having said that, I will offer another recommendation for Sim Audio, ESPECIALLY the W-5 LE, of which there is a 10/10-condition used one for sale on the 'goN right now in your price range.
Also, since you are already familiar with the EMC-1 player, the Electrocompaniet AW220 monoblocks should definitely be something to consider. A nice used pair of these can be found for about half of your budget.
I have both of these models in my combo 2-channel/HT system right now, and listen to music that is very similar to what you describe. I feel they are both terrific products that get nowhere near the kudos that they deserve.
... But, YMMV...
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