Best preamp for $1000 or less with remote

If you do not want to add color (some people love it) to your amp, try Bryston 60. It is an integrated amp, but it has output from Preamp section. I have used it with Cary SLA-30 amp and I loved it. You can find one in Ebay at $ 600-1200, if you are lucky. This integrated amp itself is a wonderful amp, if 60W is enough for your system.

peachtree nova is a good choice if you could use the DAC also, pre out to the xpa-2 would sound great

I should have mentioned that I'm kind of wanting to stick with a solid state preamp mainly because it will be left on continuously.

Disclaimer upfront: I have one for sale.
The Bel Canto PRe3 is a fantastic preamp. About as transparent as you'll find, a pleasure to use, balanced in and out. Meets all the criteria you stated and would be a good match for the Emotiva. Read the reviews.

Would be helpful if you told us what you're using now and what sound qualities you're looking to change and/or improve upon.