I wouldn't focus on a $ amount. You'll just get frustrated as you see people spend a small fortune. You should set a budget and then proportion it out % wise, with a majority spent on speakers. I will say that I've seen people spending $50-$100K on a system that sounds like crap due to improper pairing or horrible room acoustics. I have a system that I spent less than $10K (Dynaudio, Rotel, Sota) and it sounds great, but I was meticulous about placement, etc.
What is the current retail cost of your reference system?
It would be interesting to share this as I am not sure some of us understand how decisions are made within the framework of cost and resolution. Please avoid used prices as that muddys the water significantly. Also cabling costs would be revealing as well if willing to share.