For the integrated amp, you can purchase a NAD C320 BEE ($400 new). I can not think of a better integrated amp for the money. More than sufficient power (50 wpc); excellent with all types of music; well built and reliable; and it will sound good with a wide variety of speakers and cables. I have used the NAD every day for a year and a half now, and have not had any problems.
If you would prefer to go with a receiver, look at the Denon DRA 395 ($350 list). Very nice unit for the money.
As for speakers, there are some outstanding bookshelf speakers out there. For starters, you can try the Wharfedale Diamonds 8.1 ($200); the NHT SB2 ($400); or the EPOS M 5 ($550 - just received a killer review in What Hi Fi Magazine). These 3 speakers will also all sound good if placed near a wall. Another way to go, are the speakers made by
Axiom Audio . Look at the M3ti ($275) or the M22ti ($400). Axiom products are available only through the internet and they usually pay for the shipping.
Don't go crazy with cables ... in fact, if you are spending more than $75 ... you are spending too much. Radio Shack's gold series interconnects and mega speaker cables are very serviceable and do a decent enough job. Don't get hung up on cables, until you are working as an investment banker.
I tried to steer you towards purchasing new equipment, because you would be covered by the manufacturer's warranty in the event that your units ever require servicing. Reliability is my number one concern. Accordingly, for each manufacturer that I recommended, I have owned their products before. Also, you should be able to find these products locally or to make a web purchase and possibly save sales tax and shipping.
Regards, Rich