[jackfish]

First of all, the OP said this system is primarily for music. Second, the Harmon Kardon stereo receivers cost less than HT receivers and will sound better in a stereo system. Third, the OP has had to reiterate this system is mainly for music. Fourth, there are speakers capable of providing a satisfying music listening experience without a subwoofer. That can always be added later if you feel you need more bottom end. The bottom line is the OP can get a satisfying receiver and loudspeaker stereo music listening system for $500.

Suggestions:

Harman Kardon HK-3390 stereo receiver $220 delivered
http://www.harmankardon.com/product_detail.aspx?cat=REC&sType=C&prod=HK+3390
http://hometheaterreview.com/harman-kardon-hk-3390-stereo-receiver/

PSB Image B25 bookshelf loudspeakers $380/pair delivered
http://www.psbspeakers.com/products/Image-Series/Image-B25-Monitor
http://www.stereophile.com/budgetcomponents/1204psb/

The Harman Kardon provides ample clean, power to drive the PSB loudspeakers, has preamp outputs to make it possible to add more power in the future, has subwoofer outputs to add a subwoofer in the future, and has inputs for an iPod.

The PSB are an excellent speaker for critical music listening on a budget. They are not bass shy producing 45 Hz +/- 3dB and 40 Hz -10dB. The lowest note on a bass guitar hits 42 Hz. Unless you are frequently listening to pedal organ music or some electronica these speakers will provide satisfying bass. As I mentioned above, you can always add a subwoofer later, but if you are mostly listening to music and just watching TV through the system this deserves a try. Read the Stereophile review on these speakers.

Add an OPPO DV-980H universal disc player for $170 and you have a complete music system. http://www.oppodigital.com/dv980h/

 

[jackfish]

What's $100 among friends? So, $600 is the lowest I can put together a quality entry level music system. Wait a minute! The OP might be satisfied with the sound of the Infinity Primus P162 loudspeakers for $220/pair delivered. Many people are even given their shortcomings. Now I'm down to $440 and will provide a system which has met the OP's original objectives, two channel music listening that satisfies for under $500. In that price range the OP will be getting a good value.

Click here for the Stereophile review of the Infinity Primus P162

The reconditioned Onkyo TX-SR507 is $269 delivered. It has a bunch of circuitry the OP doesn't need for his stated objective. The new Harman Kardon HK-3390 is $220. Open both up and look at the amplifier sections and you can see why the Harman Kardon has more guts and more refined sound; bigger transformer, bigger caps.

And really, you have got to be kidding suggesting the Onkyo HT-S5200 to meet the OP's objective for a system for listening to music. Talk about getting what you pay for. A bunch of stuff that's not needed that compromises attaining the stated objective.

When posters on the Stereophile forum ask about HT I suggest they come over here, when posters ask about entry level two channel music systems here it appears they really will get better advice over at the Entry Level Stereophile forum.