help arcam phono preamp quandry

I recently purchased an Arcam 9C preamp to replace my Parasound HP850 preamp. I do prefer the sound of the Arcam (seems more natural), but it doesn't have a phono stage as the Parasound does. I'd like to be able to play my vinyl, but want to sink as little into phono capability as possible, as I rarely play my records.
So my questions are:
1. How can I get a phono card for my Arcam, and what would it cost?
2. Would I be better off going with a budget external phono stage, such as the Pro-ject?
3. It's all in my head, my ears are worthless and the Parasound sounds just as good (or better) than the Arcam...so I should dump the Arcam and stick with the Parasound?
My turntable is a Thorens TD160, cartridge a Grado Z1+, Acurus amplifier and EPOS 11 speakers. I listen primarily to acoustic music, and jazz/folk vocals.

Any thoughts would be appreciated! Balthus