I'm going to chime in with my usual balance argument. Your system will only be as good as your cheapest (or lowest grade) part. Try to budget your system so that 35% of what you send is on the speakers. Then 25% for amps, processor or receiver. 25% for source. 10% for room acoustics, and then 5% for wires & cables. (give or take a few points)

But starting with your speakers is the best bet. It would suck to buy a receiver and then find out that the speakers you love take more power than that receiver can give. Once you pick out the speakers you like, then you'll know what kind of power you'll need to drive them. Take your time though. Do your homework before buying anything. Getting it right the first time can save you a bundle down the road.