See if you can find used audio equipment.
About 10 years ago, I was looking for a decent 2.1 system. I had a budget of about $1000usd. On a friend’s advice, I went to a used audio shop.
I was able to get an older NAD receiver and nice Boston Acustics speakers for about $750. I found a new Polk sub for $250.
I’ve been using my system almost daily for 10 years now. It’s fantastic and I feel no need to upgrade.
See if you can find a store that sells used audio equipment near you
This is why I buy used audio gear. The basic guts of the stuff hasn’t changed much in the past several decades.
I bought a nice used head unit and speakers 10 years ago. They’re 30+ years old now and still work perfectly well.