Heres a system for the budget inclined that whilst lean on price isn't lean on performance!

Cambridge Audio 540A
A good system needs a good amp to get the most out of the speakers. Heres a great little performer, smooth yet powerful, with enough kick to drive some serious speaker loads. $599

Marantz CD5400
Sweet and mellow, the 5400 is a great CD spinner. Well laid out and using good quality components, its got a superb dynamic sound. Fantastic value for money. $499

Monitor Audio Bronze B2
An excellent budget speaker. Amazing top end detail for the money, with good extended bass response. partnered with good stands, the image is wild! $650

Its a capable system on its own, however, I recommend using some good interconnects, something like a Taralabs 300i (1m - $69.95) would be a minimum, and to get the most out of the speakers, I recommend Chord Carnival Bi-wire ($20 per metre).

Of course there are other options. Upgrade to bigger bass with the floor standing Mission M33s at $799. Add more detail and depth with a better CD player, like the Cambridge Audio 640C, a bargain at $799. Slip into a smooth sublime english built amp like the Rega Brio for $999.

But don't take my word for it. This is a great system to start with, but who knows? Building a system is a fun process, so pop on in with a few CD's and have a listen.