Help out a poor audio ignoramus

[Sethomas]

Hi. I don't know shit about home theater systems, but I'm a quick learner when it comes to putting shit together. I don't really have the time to submerge myself in the lingo, but I need to figure out what brand is best for the money. I'd prefer something compact, but I'd like something like a 5-piece system for as cheap as possible. What would you guys recommend? Otherwise, I'll probably just play on local classifieds/craigslist to get things piecemeal and ask my friend if he approves of every little thing.