I'll offer a counterpoint - I presently have a 2.0 system (sold off the rear/center and sub). I use it for both music and home "theater", but I'd rather have two very good main speakers than 5 marginal speakers. But it depends on where your preferences lean. If you want the back channel immersion, then 5.1 is the only way to get it. But don't underestimate the power of a *good* set of main speakers to image sound.
Triple your budget
