Want to setup basic home audio system

By now you have been given tons of great advice. I would add to take your time. Good deals aren’t good deals if you don’t need the component or if they force you to make a significant compromise. For instance, I have a pair of Thiel’s that are beautiful- but they average just above 2 ohms, they are not highly efficient. The sacrifice in owning these is they limit amps that can run them. The message to you is, buy efficient speakers first that also have a musical tendency. Some may not like these, but a set of Klipsch Quartets are available on Seattle CL. Klipsch has a strong fan base- maybe not on Agon, but elsewhere. With slight modifications- put auto soundproofing  material on backside of horns- these can really rock using almost any amp. I think the asking price might be high- but again, these will hold their value and allow you to get a feel for this while enjoying. You can even buy an EBay tube amp to effectively drive these- although I have never heard any of these. A Prima Luna is also on your CL. I have a set of Quartets hooked up to a Vincent SV500 hybrid integrated and they sound fantastic. That Vincent is another good choice as it has tube and SS, as well as an adequate dac. Add in a cheap streamer- Amazon dot recommendation or a Raspberry Pi, and you are set. Please take the brands I mentioned with a grain of salt but focus on the efficiency portion and value. Efficient Speakers that have a rabid following are a good choice initially because they open up your amp choices and allow a cost effective path to upgrade. 

Haven’t read every post in the the thread but has anyone recommended an all in one system such as Denon ?  For $500 OP
gets amplification, streamer, DAC.  Another $500 for speakers and stands and he is done, saves some $ on cables.  The Denon has gotten good reviews from Audiophile writers

Check out the Yamaha R-N602.  It’s $599.95, with a streamer, very solid amplification, and a full set of tone controls.  Then roll up your sleeves and build a pair of Parts Express Samba speakers.  They will compete with many $1500.00 pairs for $320.00 (plus whatever you spend to finish them on veneers or paint).  Finally, a good pair of budget steel stands from Pangea or Sanus....or build your own from scratch I’d you have the ability.  Some Transparent HP-122 and banana plugs, and you’re off to the races!

Well, If you are willing to up your budget to $1500 and are willing to buy used/dealer demo you have greater options. I agree it is best to identify speakers 1st. Then find a integrated amp which compliments. That said when cost is a concern it is best to look for speakers that can be driven by a 50-100wpc, 4ohm capable amplifier to loudness levels desired within the size of room where system is to be placed. With that in mind, should the right amplifier be identified you might wish to purchase it. 

Given you have a system in place you can afford to take your time, take advantage of deals as they come available and piece together a great system over time. Enjoy each improvement as it comes.

Regarding cables, I would purchase Canare 4S11 speaker cables. Great value, ~$1.50/foot. Purchase others used or discounted. 

I use a MacBook Pro as a source for my secondary system. Many amplifiers, speakers, and DACs have rotated within over the last few years. Currently I am using it with a Yamaha A-s701 via the 701's internal DAC driving a pair of B&W 685s. Both bought used via Audiogon. The 701 lacks a USB input, however I own a USB/SPDIF converter. The Yamaha A-s801 has USB input in addition to coax and optical. Though I mention Yamaha, it isn't the only brand to consider. I think the A-sxxx line is good value. I am also a fan of the NAD C xxx BEE integrateds. Back to speakers,  I may try a pair of Wharfedale Lintons should a used pair come up for sale one day.

Enjoy your search and keep us posted.  

As you can see diripio, 
Choices abound!