I have the same questions and the same criteria for finding a perfect amp match with the kef r 3 speakers.

I have the Audiolab 6000A powering ProAc Tab 10s (so roughly the same specs) in one of my rigs and it's amazing. Excellent fidelity, articulate, instrument separation is incredible, quality phono stage, but warm? Nope. To be honest, I think if you want the warmth, you either need to go vintage or invest in a tube phono preamp. For your budget you could get a killer refurbished vintage amp with EQ, metal face, lotsa power, and all the warmth you want. My other setup is a Sansui AU-999 with a Vincent PHO-701 tube phono preamp -now that's warm. Love it.

I have the Audiolab 6000A powering ProAc Tab 10s (so roughly the same specs) in one of my rigs and it's amazing. Excellent fidelity, articulate, instrument separation is incredible, quality phono stage, but warm? Nope. To be honest, I think if you want the warmth, you either need to go vintage or invest in a tube phono preamp. For your budget you could get a killer refurbished vintage amp with EQ, metal face, lotsa power, and all the warmth you want. My other setup is a Sansui AU-999 with a Vincent PHO-701 tube phono preamp -now that's warm. Love it.