kinggerard for 3k - budget just can get Pioneer 329k with AJ speaker & woofer (5.1) which is still much better than htib. i think good for starter.

i m using pioneer 524k with AJ speakers minus the woofer and i have Samsung Blu-ray HTIB F6550. the pioneer even lower range are still alot better than Top range HTIB imho.

i no sifu here, just casual user for movies only. if you want good warranty you can try to get at senq for 329k set. last time 323k was sold for 2,899 or 2,999, the 329k is latest model imnm there are selling for 3199 or 3299 now. other place you can try if you are at kv is harvey norman or desa ht. at hn for those entry level sets they also sell quite competitive price. i seen before they sell pioneer 323k (display) with new AJ spk/woofer set for rm1999 from the usual price 2999 during clearance which is good bargain. for budget less than 3.5k not much can be done. . as cheap amp like Pioneer 329k, Yamaha rx v377 or Denon x500 cost 1-1.5k. not much $ left for others parts.

for compatibility i think its universal.

all price mention is inclusive of amp, and 5.1 spk/woofer

you can check at pioneer web, this is 323k set, basically the same except that the amp change to 329k..
http://www.pioneer.my/my/products-detail/i...oduct=HTP-AJ323

noob question here. can we set HT in this way where -BD player (HDMI to TV) audio line out to integrated amp (PM5004) to bookshelf spk/ woofer (2.1 system)? is this workable?

you are quoted with two different sub combo?
MS200 & REL T9