The center channel speaker carries the dialog. Movies are largely dialog. It's the most important speaker in the system. Just because it's possible to do without one doesn't mean it's a good idea.
Whoever recommended that you get an amp and preamp didn't take your budget into consideration. For a first system on a budget a receiver is the way to go. You can get a good receiver and center channel for 1K, even in the UK. (I've found that equipment prices in the UK tend to be the same as in the US. They're just in pounds rather than dollars.<g>)
I've tried most of the brands of reasonably priced HT receivers and favor Denon. You will want a receiver that supports ARC connection between the TV and the receiver, but most receivers nowadays have it. It makes playing TV sound on the receiver easier.
Read the linked articles so you have some idea of what's going on. There's a lot to learn, but it's worth it. Best of luck!
Whoever recommended that you get an amp and preamp didn't take your budget into consideration. For a first system on a budget a receiver is the way to go. You can get a good receiver and center channel for 1K, even in the UK. (I've found that equipment prices in the UK tend to be the same as in the US. They're just in pounds rather than dollars.<g>)
I've tried most of the brands of reasonably priced HT receivers and favor Denon. You will want a receiver that supports ARC connection between the TV and the receiver, but most receivers nowadays have it. It makes playing TV sound on the receiver easier.
Read the linked articles so you have some idea of what's going on. There's a lot to learn, but it's worth it. Best of luck!