Making the most with the less is true audio knowledge...
You are missing out a bit. There is a true audio savant in industry named Andrew Jones who offered charity for many years. It may be practically impossible for other dudes to eek out quality sound with non-existent budgets like Andrew. You probably owe it to yourself to try one of his speakers. He uses Yamaha amps primarily when voicing his speakers.
Elac Debut 2.0 bookshelf speakers, msrp ~350 usd
Yamaha A-S301 integrated amp., msrp ~350 usd
Get them used for way less. It may be a big upgrade from what you currently have.