Upgrade options feedback

[Antonmb]

I'm considering an upgrade path that would build a good foundation to carry me into retirement in a couple of years. For now I'm considering an upgrade to sources and amplification in my main system (speakers later) and am looking at somewhat divergent options, one Linn-based, and one Audio Research (one requirement is must be availabel from a local dealer who does demos, installation, etc). I would appreciate feedback, especially from anyone with experience with both Linn and Audio Research. My current system consists of an ARC DSi200 integrated, a Linn Akurate DS for digital, a Linn Uphorik phono stage, Rega P9, and SF Cremona Auditor M. Some basic parameters and info:

• My current rack is the limit for space, so 3 boxes must cover digital streamer, preamp, phono stage, and power.
• I like the Linn DS digital streaming ecosystem and plan on sticking with it, so no interest in looking at other DACs, streamers or servers at the moment.
• Most of my listening is jazz, classical, blues and folk at relatively moderate levels. I occasionally crank the volume with rock., but not that often.
• Budget is $30-35k.

The options under consideration:

1. The Linn route: Linn Klimax DSM (preamp and digital streamer) and Linn Twin amp (200wpc stereo). My Seattle dealer is driving the 2 hours to my house in a couple of weeks bringing this combo for audition. It's an appealing setup for the sleek design, the lack of break-in time, lack of warm-up time for listening sessions, the potential synergy of a full Linn system, and no tube life to worry about. I'm leaning heavily in this direction at the moment, but it's the more expenseive option and would use pretty much my full budget for the two boxes.
2. The ARC integrated route: a VSi75 integrated, a PH8 phono stage, and stick with the Akurate DS for digital. Optionally keep the Uphorik phono stage and upgrade the Akurate to a Klimax DS.Still provides the capabilities of the Linn digital side, but brings tubes into the picture for amplification.
3. ARC separates: SP20 preamp, which gets me the phono stage in the same box, and REF75 amplifier. Upgrade the Akurate to the Klimax DS as budget permits, probably next year.

Thanks in advance for any feedback. It may be a moot point of course if I'm blown away by the Linn combo in my home in a couple of weeks. I'm also trying to set up a demo of the ARC SP20/REF75 combo, but may not be able to do this in home with my own speakers.