If you want to start in high end, get the Magnepan's. The MMG-W sold direct, if you check out the reviews, you will be shocked that any consumer item can be so universally praised. Also, they are dirt cheap. A half-way decent subwoofer is s must with them, and you will need a reciever with some juice (over 100w min) that can crossover the sub/speakers (try 110hz to start).
Good luck.
Good luck.