I have done very well with Acoustic Research (AR 302) speakers that I have purchased through www.accessories4less.com. These folks are the authorized Internet distributor for discontinued AR styles. They are offering the AR-15C for $190 pair (discounted from $500 pair). These are efficient bookshelf speakers that play loud & rock. They have good bass response; work with a wide range of music; are fairly detailed. 2 sets of these speakers would bring you to $400. They are offering the AR PSC225 center channel for $75. Keeps you under $500 and into HT. Another way to go is with the Wharfedale Diamond Series 8. 2 pairs of the Diamond 8.1 would cost $400 and they make a matching center channel. I liked the Wharfedales much more than the (prior series) B&W 302's. Wharfedale is at iagamerica.com
Good luck.
Rich
Good luck.
Rich