I'd stay away from Phase Linear. Not familiar with that Kenwood piece.

The Krell and NAD are integrated amps. The Krell is probably overall better but I think you may more happy with the M3's sound quality based on what you've said.

I also think the Musical Fidelity is a good choice for you and they can be had new for around the same price as the Emo monoblocks. www.amusicdirect.com

Some of those amps I've heard but I know many of that group vary in their sound signature. Except for a couple I'd scratch not a bad list.