If music is more important to you, I would do the following: Purchase a set of good left/right and center speakers, as close to full range as possible. Spend as much as you can on the speakers, and buy a pair that both you and (if applicable) spouse can live with. Spend less money on the surrounds, but try to find one that is voice matched with the fronts, or at least has the same type tweeter (i.e. metal dome). Then purchase a quality receiver for your surround sound and music listening. Later, as money allows, purchase a separate 2ch amp (used here on Audiogon) for your left/right speakers to get better sound for your music. For music, there are many good used CD players here on Audiogon as well. You are now poised for future upgrades (audio/video preamp-processor and then separate amps for the remaining speakers).
As for brands to look at, I've always been partial to the following when looking for value:
Denon (receivers)
Acurus (amps--these are being discontinued next year due to parent company restructuring so you will find excellent deals on both new and used--first rate quality)
NHT (speakers--research their "Super" series)
California Audio Labs (good quality CD players--especially if looking for used ones)
I'm sure others on this site will have some additional advice. Good luck with your purchases.
As for brands to look at, I've always been partial to the following when looking for value:
Denon (receivers)
Acurus (amps--these are being discontinued next year due to parent company restructuring so you will find excellent deals on both new and used--first rate quality)
NHT (speakers--research their "Super" series)
California Audio Labs (good quality CD players--especially if looking for used ones)
I'm sure others on this site will have some additional advice. Good luck with your purchases.