You could get by with a receiver like the Yamaha RX-V661.
While it does not decode HD Audio, your PS3 can and the unit will process PCM from the PS3 easily.
As far as speakers, they all sound different, not only at a store, but at your home.
Try to buy those that give you a 30 day money back deal so if you don't like them in
your home you can get something different.
Sure starting with a good brand is always a good idea, but the room interaction between your ears and speakers is hard to determine via a forum.
Some good online stores that offer a 30 day trial are:
http://www.hsuresearch.com Horns provide high volume for little power
http://av123.com/ These always get good reviews and the Rocket line is very affordable.
http://www.axiomaudio.com/ Very nice and well made speakers.
http://www.orbaudio.com/ I have these. I like them but they may not be enough for your application.
Any one of these offer speaker packages in your price range.
They all sound different, but only you can decide which sounds best in your room and to your ears.
Good luck and happy shopping.
