Looking to build a system for under $5k

You got 5 grand to spend so don't let others do it for you.

And there are no components that offer a best bang for the buck.  If there were, that's all that would be available at a certain price point.  Everyone would want them and nothing else.  Instead there are hundreds to choose from.  So, there are only those components that work best with each other. 

Go to a few HiFi dealers and start auditioning speakers to find the pair that sounds best to you; not us. Vandersteens should be definitely be heard but whose to say your won't like them in favor of something else? If there are no dealers in your city, then day trip it to the nearest one that does.  Or plan on attending a 2 channel audio show. If your in the Midwest, Axpona is coming up in the Spring in Chicago.  In other words, take you time and do it right.

Don't be afraid to use half your budget for the speakers.  Build your system around these.  They are the only component you can actually hear and will be responsible for the final outcome from all sources.  Then look for an integrated amp that will properly drive those speakers.  Its ability to drive the speakers you have selected should be the first consideration in picking it out.  Everything will just be a feature like a phono stage or DAC.  These things can be added as external devices.

After speakers and integrated amp, then get your CD player with what's left.  Since you said vinyl would be down the road, then start saving all over again.  To do vinyl right will cost a lot more than a digital source.

Have fun and happy hunting!

I am not interested in debating any of my recommendations.

Nothing to debate brother.  You're post is pretty much a mirror image of mine and tls47.  I couldn't agree more.

Note: I too, will not comment further the merits of audio shows. This is just an account of my personal experience. If someone else wants to weigh in, great ... but that's it for me.  

Sorry, but attending a show is a great way to start learning about gear, and ultimately the best gear for a buyer, rather than asking a bunch of strangers on the internet for suggestions.  Especially if there are no dealers in one's area to visit.  I believe this was the point of Douglas' post.  It sure was mine.

Sure the manufacturers will often showcase their best TOTL gear but very often there is also trickle down technology that goes into their lower priced offerings.  Especially speakers as most manufacturers will build all models in a range to attain a certain house sound.  Its also a way of becoming familiar with brands that would otherwise go unnoticed.  Then go home and research these brands to find models best for you and your budget.  Use the show as a learning experience, not a shopping trip.  Unless of course a great deal falls you way that meets both your listening expectation and budget.