"for a while"
That puts a whole new slant on the discussion.
If all you ever wanted was a 2 channel system, then I would recommend a 2 channel integrated, perhaps from NAD or Rotel, that would set you back about the same as the receiver. They would be a little better overall.
But, since you forsee multi channel in your future, the Denon does not lack for musical abilities. I own a 2802 and most of the time it's in the good old two channel mode and I don't feel a lack of enjoyment.
The speakers are the most important link in this chain. Choose these first. Then look for something to drive them to the levels you want. Then, as long as you have enough clean power to drive them, you're prety much home free.
FWIW, my first love is music. When I went shopping for speakers and a receiver, I used music as my main criteria. I would up with Athena AS F1's as my main speakers. The center and surrounds are also from the same series.