Help in setting up my first sound system

Hi, I'm looking to set up my first audio system and the more research I do the more confused I become. I basically want a pair of floorstanding speakers. I know I need an amp but WTH are pre amps, should I have tube or solid state, then there's cables, placement, the drivers in the speakers, kevler, cone etc, etc. Please help or point me in the direction of a site where I gather this info in one hit, (audiophile systems for dummys would be good)
Thanks