I have heard two very impressive modest set-ups with the Arros. The first is Musical Fidelity's X-T100, X-Ray v8, and triple X power supply -- $3000 new! The other setup was Creek Evo, which would run $2000 new for both the integrated and cd player.
Check on Totem's website, I remember seeing specific component manufacturers they recommended as having synergy with their speakers. If you are able to spend $3k combined on electronics, you'll likely walk away with a great little system if you do your research well as there are tons of excellent choices out there. Don't forget about cabling and room layout either; the latter, I bet, is a big reason your buddy's system sounds so nice.
Check on Totem's website, I remember seeing specific component manufacturers they recommended as having synergy with their speakers. If you are able to spend $3k combined on electronics, you'll likely walk away with a great little system if you do your research well as there are tons of excellent choices out there. Don't forget about cabling and room layout either; the latter, I bet, is a big reason your buddy's system sounds so nice.