Waratah

Neve Gear Waratah is currently the best price on a high end quilt IMO. The 20° is like $260 and doesn't seem to cut any corners on materials and design. I think quilts are 100% worth it when outside temps are above freezing. Soon as it hits below freezing, I prefer a mummy bag.

Durston X-Dome 1+/Terra Nova Pioneer Compact 2 with a Nemo Tensor All Season and a Neve Waratah -2C quilt. This combo does me all year round, with varying combinations of base- and mid-layers to boost warmth depending on the temperatures.

The sleeping pad is fine. Could choose a ccf pad to save some money, but many people can't sleep comfortably on them. Also not as insulated. I agree the tent is way too heavy but I'd suggest looking for a lighter sleeping bag or just going for a quilt. Nevegear is a reasonably good deal, for example, that would cut well over a pound for about the same price or a bit more money depending on which you buy. Or, if you want to go the total opposite direction and buy something more 4 season worthy, Paria has a new 0° 800FP down bag that is $20 more than this one and less weight even with the much better rating.

I’ve used my Neve waratah -2C down below freezing and it has been warm. Really like that quilt and it has been bomber and warm. I think the -8C will be plenty warm for just below freezing. The pad attachment system is particularly good. I also just picked up a Paria thermodown 0 for winter trips below freezing. I find that I sometimes prefer a bag with a hood in well below freezing temps. There is a definite weight penalty but a good nights sleep can be worth it. Paria also has some quilt options that I have heard good things about but never personally tried.

My nevegear waratah -2 arrived recently. What's the lowest temperature you'd be comfortable going down to, even if that means layering up. I have a well insulated mat too

The neve gear and enlightened equipment are solid picks. I would suggest getting the foot box sewn shut it will save weight, be much warmer, and you will likely never sleep with it open. Consider ditching the sleeping liner and invest that weight into more down in your sleeping quilt to add much more warmth for the weight. The timmermade false bottom quilts are amazing at stoping drafts and retaining warmth although not budget picks. Also check out hammock gear, Timmermade, UGQ, katabatic gear.