I think you want something with a warmer sound signature for those KEFs which definitely is not Emotiva. 2k will get you something very descent especially used. You considered tubes? I ran a Cayin 100wpc tube integrated with KEF 201/2s. On paper it should not have worked well but it sounded great. I liked tubes much better than ss with those particular speakers.
I need more Power Scotty !!!!
Have Kef LS 50s Outlaw RR2160 receiver. Technics SL D2 turntable. I love my system sounds fabulous. Looking at Emotiva Mono blocks. Something under 2K would be nice. Lastly I am a retired Physicist so no upper mid range breath and air considerations. Love the site. Regards Pat Orlando.