I'm looking to get into home audio and am looking for places to start. My living room, while not ideal, will be where I am placing my system. My system currently consists of a somewhat limited budget and the desire to learn... so, I am starting from scratch!

My living room is approx. 17' X 16' with vaulted ceilings up to 14'. It is connected to my dining area/kitchen behind the listener and a half wall on one of the sides.

I have listened to Polk Audio Monitor 70's, Paradigm Monitor 7 v.4s, and Klipsch floorstanders (I don't recall the model). I'm interested to hear opinions on bookshelf speakers, such as the Paradigm Studio 20's. The receivers I have listened to have all been Denon, but am interested in Onkyo products as well. I'm open to any suggestions, however.

I'm looking to start with the receiver and fronts and then upgrade from there. Looking to spend around $600 for the reciever and $1,000 for the fronts. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Thanks in advance, and I look forward to reading any responses!

Mike