Speakers?

what is the sound of one hand clapping?

Marsh, that depends on your room, budget, setup...etc. Every 2-channel/HT system is in a way, "customized" for/by its owner, so it is pretty difficult to recommend one, two, or the "best" system availble w/o more information.

I would recommend you to look through some of the earlier HT and speaker-related threads and do some audition at home for the "best" speaker system.

Hope this helps, and happy listening!

p.s.
I use the NHT HT speaker system myself.

I would bet it is in Mr. Albert Porter's listening room.

What ever your budget it seems to help an HT system to have the same basic brand of speakers all the way around. (for example having B&W 600 series all around with a CC6 center). This way the sounds and voices will be consistant all around you.
The top of the line B&W Nautilus Series comes with speakers for all HT applications including center channel, so if money is no object, give them a listen. Also get a good powered subwoofer that matches the quality of whatever speakers you get.