OK, I have some karma to make up, so here goes...
It depends on how extensive you want to get. If you can live without radio capabilities, I just saw a sweet mini two channel speaker/integrated combo from av123.com for $299.
http://av123.com/component/page,shop.product_details/category_id,51/flypage,shop.flypage/product_id,393/option,com_virtuemart/Itemid,37/vmcchk,1/Itemid,37/
If you want radio you'll need a receiver, but since this is for a secondary system (and given your modest budget) you don't need much. Yamaha's entry level 2 channel receiver (not sure what current model is, but the evolution of the rx396) would suffice, with the remainder committed to speakers. There are numerous options from other brands as well. You should be able to pick up a modest, reasonable receiver for $200 or less w/ judicious shopping.
As a general rule, you should try to personally audition the speakers. However, given your budget constraints, you may want to consider the internet direct route. In general, you get much more (particularly cosmetically...real wood veneers, superior build quality) for your buck within the low-price strata via internet companies. Check out Aperion, av123, ascend, etc. for great value, great looking, and decent performing small speakers. Alternately, I've seen great deals on NHT's, KEF's, and others at local stores.
