Speakers: hang out in the speaker forum and do a search/browse for similar threads for your budget, but you want to look into Polk, Energy, B&W, Paradigm, etc.

Yes, you should consider a new receiver because the receivers, typically, in the HTIB configuration incorporate too many compromises and restricted functionality. But, on the other hand, you don't need to go broke getting a new receiver. One in the $4-500 range should suffice for efficient speakers and whatever your needs may be.