Recommendations for sound bar upgrade

[mbl11428]

2 years ago I bought an OLED and at the time paired it with an LG SJ9 sound bar due to space constraints. Now I have a space that could easily hold any size 5.1 system so I'm looking to upgrade. Trying to keep the budget modest, let's say $2k (not firm). Any recommendations on where to start searching would be greatly appreciated. I'm not expecting top of the line equipment with this budget but I would like something that's a substantial improvement over the sound bar. Thanks!

 

[Russdawg1]

Start with a receiver. Denon X3500H.

You can get that for around $500.

Leaves $1500 for speakers + sub.

I’d get something along the lines of a HSU VTF2 or Monolith 12” sub when it’s on sale. Both are around $600

That leaves $900 for speakers.

4 Ascend CBM170’s + Ascend CMT340 Center = $900

That would be a pretty killer system for $2000.

 

[mbl11428]

Start with a receiver. Denon X3500H.

You can get that for around $500.

Leaves $1500 for speakers + sub.

I’d get something along the lines of a HSU VTF2 or Monolith 12” sub when it’s on sale. Both are around $600

That leaves $900 for speakers.

4 Ascend CBM170’s + Ascend CMT340 Center = $900

That would be a pretty killer system for $2000.

I'm seeing what looks like a great deal on a factory refurbished pair of Focal Aria 926 floors for $2000 (normally $3200). Any thoughts on these?