Thanks for all the suggestions.
I *think* I may stick with the harman kardon, clean it up a bit and try that. Its got seperate amps for each channel and seems to be designed quite well. I think it may compare well to something like an entry level cambridge audio. What I really like about it is its ability to have good clean bass as well as keep the highs from becoming too brittle.
I would like to get a pair of speakers which complement this. Everyone raves about the HK 430 with Klipsch heresey's and their older horn models.
I appreciate the suggestions on the Ascend Acoustics, and the x-ls's . I'm somewhat hesitant on these since they don't have much of a reputation in terms of name recognition. However their price is attractive. Im very seriously considering the VR-1's since I know I can grow with those. Carl would you mind forwarding me the name of the member who has a pair to get rid of? I know there is a deal on the VSA site, but any money I can save and I am not a fan of the finish that is available.
What are ya'll's opinions on the B&W 600 series, I know they have a good reputation and I can find a pair on audiogon for 250-300.
EDIT: To throw another idea out i've also re-arranged the room and found that I CAN use floorstanding speakers. So thats another thought if there's a knockout full range pair I should look at.