1st off, congrats on the start of a killer system! I would definitely recommend you stay in the ARC family for your pre. I've heard the 2.5s with a VT100, and the synergy the system had with an ARC LS16, was better than if we subbed in costlier preamps that I usually preferred.
I don't know if you need a phono stage or not. But I'd add an LS7, or a SP9 MkIII to the list. On the SP9 I'd highly recommend getting the 3rd version, over versions I or II. Either of those can be had for under 1K. The SP10 is clearly better, but you'd have to pay quite a bit more for the difference.
If you can't audition any of the ones mentioned here yourself, I'd relist your question but add your musical tastes. That way, you can get input from members who have similar ear to yours.
Good luck on your search.
I don't know if you need a phono stage or not. But I'd add an LS7, or a SP9 MkIII to the list. On the SP9 I'd highly recommend getting the 3rd version, over versions I or II. Either of those can be had for under 1K. The SP10 is clearly better, but you'd have to pay quite a bit more for the difference.
If you can't audition any of the ones mentioned here yourself, I'd relist your question but add your musical tastes. That way, you can get input from members who have similar ear to yours.
Good luck on your search.