I've seen some cheaper speakers/receivers on http://www.audioadvisor.com/. The Athena LS-300 which are (supposedly) regular $250 each for $200/pair. The only problem I see with these is that they don't have the low bass that you need for the Snoop Dogg. (Although specification wise they still have comparable bass to the Sonys (38hz versus 35hz).) http://www.audioadvisor.com/prodinfo.asp?number=ATLS300 I've never heard the Parasound, but according to the reviews it seems impressive for $260. It's a "factory-refreshed" unit, and that's why it's $100 cheaper than normal. http://www.audioadvisor.com/prodinfo.asp?number=2PAZAMPV3 But if you truly want to rock out on a budget, headphones are the way to go. Although, I currently own Sennheisers, I've owned a few Grados, and they are the best headphone for your buck. I've had non-audiophile friends put the Grados on and say, "Wow, I've never heard anything sound that good." They will truly open your eyes (and ears), and let you hear all the music that you're not hearing through your computer speakers or ipod ear buds. http://www.audioadvisor.com/prodinfo.asp?number=GRSR80I Good luck with your search.