I’m just using the app. I think it’s the nicest, most functional, and best looking music app outside of PlexAmp… however I absolutely agree with you that I really really wish it was just its own app… you can make this easier on yourself by editing the quick bar at the bottom of the app. When I open the Emby app it’s one tap to get to the music and then at least I don’t have to “dig through” it to get there.
I have an AppleTV4k Hooked up to my tv and 5.1 sound system so I can Airplay to that with my iPhone. Same goes for my HomePod in the kitchen when I’m cooking. If you’re not on iOS you can also cast to any device with an Emby app but there is less flexibility there.
I am in the same boat as you in that I’d love a dedicated app, I’m just waiting for one to come along that doesn’t suck. The FinAmp project had gotten me excited since it was ostensibly Jellyfin’s take on PlexAmp but it looks god awful and the functionality isn’t there. They have a beta version that’s a complete redesign but it also sucks terribly in my opinion.
Since you mentioned podcasts, AudioBookShelf as a back end with the “ShelfPlayer” app on iOS has been phenomenal. The ShelfPlayer app even works with my Oauth connection which is so awesome. Wish Emby or Jellyfin did that lol.
Kojima is only getting weirder.