Think we need more info....regarding your needs and what is "cheap"
If you do not need 7.1/hdmi/extensive bass mgt etc....an older 5.1 AVR from BK/Arcam/etc (around 500) along with a nice older amp (forte, CJ etc @ 600)...probably will sound pretty good when compared to a new Denon or Onkyo AVR at around +1,000.
But you will miss out on the latest HT features and do not have to spend $$$ on the rca cable.
If you do not need 7.1/hdmi/extensive bass mgt etc....an older 5.1 AVR from BK/Arcam/etc (around 500) along with a nice older amp (forte, CJ etc @ 600)...probably will sound pretty good when compared to a new Denon or Onkyo AVR at around +1,000.
But you will miss out on the latest HT features and do not have to spend $$$ on the rca cable.