Eric, as far as the speakers, I'd definitely suggest the M22s, even if you're not going to use a sub at first.
Unless you think that it'll be a long time before you get into multi-channel, I'd suggest that you consider a 5 or 6-channel receiver in your price range and that you forget about an "audiophile" amp because it won't sound any better. There are plenty of fine choices available, e.g. Denon 1803, HK 225, Kenwood 6070, Onkyo 600, Sony DA2ES, Yamaha 5060.

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Enjoy the music, not the equipment.