i also think you should look away from b&w... that's where i started first, but i soon found out there are cheaper/lesser known speakers that sound just as good, if not BETTER than B&W's.... b&w's are excellent quality, but not excellent VALUE

you can find a lot of good deals on audiogon if you check frequently.. i agree with blackraven on the older thiels, those are on the warm side and sound excellent. of course, there are many other choices. but keep in mind their sensitivity, if it's fairly low, you won't be reaching full potential with a mediocre amp.