Im looking to build a HT / home audio system. I've been doing my homework and i have some questions, that hopefully some of you can answer for me. Im interested in buying a receiver, power amp, and some speakers (clearly). Im interested in spending about 1k on a reciever, 1k on a power amp, and im very interested in Paradigm Studio series speakers. Im looking for something that will suffice for a system that will be used for 75% HT and 25% music. So many variables to tackle. Rotel, Yamaha, Denon seem to have viable products for around the 1k mark (am i right?). As for Amps i have no idea, my old man has an ancient bryston refurbed SS amp, i think i would prefer a v-tube, presonally.
So to the point. Between Rotel, Denon, Yamaha what would be the wise choice @ the 1k mark? What is a reputable 5ch v-tube amp @ the 1k mark (if any)?

On a more technical note. Im trying to learn as much as possible, but some questions i can't find the answers to. When a power amp is used w/ a receiver, is the signal amplified before or after the digital processing in the receiver? Would it be advisable to power the surrounds from the amp and let the receiver handle the sub? What would be the ideal plan of attack?

Sorry if my questions lack clarity, im still learning.

Any insight would be most appreciated!