I would go with a lower cost receiver. I use the Panasonic sa-xr55 which can be had for under $200.00 at many ID locations. DO a search on the reviews. I LOVE it!!! Do NOT let the low price fool you. Read the many reviews on many forums. Of course you will find those who do not like it, they are the same types who don't like Axiom also. To them if it's digital and doesn't cost their first born, then it's no good. Too bad for them. I like to save $$$ and still get great sound.
How much is the budget anyway??? Really how big is the room??? Most people will not notice the difference on which AMP is being used, but they will notice quality sound coming from the speakers. Get the most speaker your money can buy.
This will give you a little more money for the speakers.
