Well, there is a reason why the EB dominates the European (FCI) field test and trails in the Continental division.
They are terrific small dogs what I have heard. France and Italy produce the best ones.
I have not seen them too much a part form one occasion in Eastern Europe. There was a gentlemen from Ukraine and he had one. The dog was a French import. He was parsing its amazing character and natural abilities, especially hunting in woodlands on woodcock.
My very good friend, whose judgment about dogs I trust has seen them across many trails and test. He said if he didn't hate the Continental breeds the EB would have been his breed of choice. He is a Pointer guy and has attended many trails/tests from Spain to Serbia. (Keep in mind that British breeds are in separate division from the Continental breeds per FCI testing rules). So yes, the EB is a very very good and proven breed.
One thing is to keep in mind is that not all Continental breeds are the same versatile as NAVHDA wants them to be.
There is a huge difference between the German breeds, the kings of versatile world, and anything else that comes form the neighboring countries (the exception is the Czech Republic but that's other discussion). Especially the French and Italian breeds.
So, don't expect the same performance on say tracking or water working from a EB you would have expected from a Small Musterlander. (Some rumors even say the EB was used to improve the SM's field abilities)
This article perfectly describes this difference and what to expect from other Continental breeds.
http://dogwilling.ca/pointing-dog-blog/http/wwwdogwillingca/blog-page-url/2018/2/5/drivedesireI have not looked into breeders in the US, but I am sure you can find some very very good ones. There was a guy with a few EBs on the Pheasant Fest 2020, but I never got to talk to him.
If you are still in love with the looks of the GSP and looking for a "softer" dog, the Braque Francais (aka the French Braqe) is another option for you. It looks like a GSP, but is more similar (somewhat) to the EB with its hunting style. It's probably even better in a hot and dry climate.
When I have more times and means and I and ready for second dog, the BF or Braque D'Auvergne (kinda looks like a black and white GSP) probably will be my next breeds.
Good luck!