Since you plan for the Cremonas in the future I'd suggest putting a budget of $4000 to $8000 together for vinyl and leave money for the Sonus and a much better amp (which they DEMAND). ARC stuff is good, but I don't think it's the best value, particularly for the Cremonas. I'd suggest something like:
VPI Scoutmaster or Pro-ject RM10 with a high output MC, like the Sumiko Blackbird $3000
Jeff Rowland Design Group Continuum 500 integrated amp with phono stage $9500.
Cremonas $9800.
Cables, Disc Doctor cleaning materials, etc. $2000
I'm assuming that you've got decent digital already.
The Pro-ject and Scoutmaster are consistant with this level of system. If you become "Dr. Vinyl" and want to upgrade, then you can do that later. You'll hear 99% with this set up and you'll probably want to buy some better LPs, if your best stuff is "scratchy".
Dave
VPI Scoutmaster or Pro-ject RM10 with a high output MC, like the Sumiko Blackbird $3000
Jeff Rowland Design Group Continuum 500 integrated amp with phono stage $9500.
Cremonas $9800.
Cables, Disc Doctor cleaning materials, etc. $2000
I'm assuming that you've got decent digital already.
The Pro-ject and Scoutmaster are consistant with this level of system. If you become "Dr. Vinyl" and want to upgrade, then you can do that later. You'll hear 99% with this set up and you'll probably want to buy some better LPs, if your best stuff is "scratchy".
Dave