To keep all of Alucard's super-powerful equipment at the beginning of Symphony of the Night, do the following. Head through the initial two areas, full of zombies and other weak foes. When you finally arrive to the third room where you encounter Shaft, enter the room and then quickly exit. If done properly, the Shaft cutscene will be bypassed, and you'll retain all of Alucard's initial super-powerful equipment. Enjoy!