Amp upgrades under $3K for bookshelf system

Thanks nonoise. I will definitely read up on the Kinki!!

Would a big McIntosh (for example) that's in good shape but a few years old give me that? So many great deals on used gear at a 50% or more discount to be had but I don't know how to begin deciding. I don't have a local audio store in my area that I could sample so looking to you internet gurus :-) for help.

Take a look at the Kinki Studio EX-M1. I recently got one and it's exceptional at low level listening, has wonderful soundstaging that's just as detailed and robust at the sides as the center, and has over 215 W per side. It's the most resolving amp I've heard that I can afford.

All the best,
Nonoise

Thanks again for another option I had never considered. Re Soix; I have an open space with a living room, dining room and kitchen that I want to be able to hear all nuances of my favorite jazz vinyl. Stan Getz, Sonny Rollins, Billy Holiday, Al Hibbler, Joao Gilberto. Most of what I listen to are live recordings with varied sound quality. I have my speakers positioned where I currently get a decent sound stage (not great) when sitting in "my spot". I was hoping for an amp that could give great live sound in that spot but also fill the rest of the space with total sound with a relatively low volume (if that is possible). I have a family which enjoys my collection but doesn't want it cranked. I was hoping a hi power amp (200 WPC?) could give me that sound? I notice with my system that I hear the highs and lows fine but miss the subtle mid layers at low volume unless I am sitting in just the right place. Not at the dinner table or when cooking.

This Parasound should fit the bill. It includes a phono preamp!  BTW,are you sure about the 1000 SQ feet?
https://www.audioadvisor.com/prodinfo.asp?number=PAHAHINT6

caphill I greatly appreciate the suggestion. I will check out the Osiris

What aspects of sound reproduction are most important to you?

Thank you for your replies. I have been reading for weeks it seems but still don't know where to start when it coms to trying to rank them based on my system needs. 

There are so many choices for your budget, new and used.  You should start reading and see what you looking for in an amp narrow it down a bit and then ask.  

I recommend the Rega Osiris stereo integrated amp currently retails for $3k. This is an analog integrated amp. No DAC. You can get an external dedicated phonostage preamp.