If you look further down the list of topics here you will find lots of discussion about how to find good speakers. IT takes time and effort to find the ones you like, and it does not have to cost a fortune, especially if you're willing to buy used speakers.

A receiver, integrated amp, or preamp/amp combo it a tougher question. For the system you describe you probably don't need a 970 and separate amp, especially if all you're looking for now is 2 channel. There are some 2 channel systems out there, but they probably occupy the high-end stereo market. Most of the low-end stuff has gone to 5.1 or 7.1 channel. Once again, you might find some very good used 2 channel equipment at reasonable prices. For that, too you need to go listen. Don't make a snap decision.

The 970 at $299 is a very good price, but keep in mind you also need an amp, whether that comes in the form of a 5.1/7.1 channel amp or 2 monoblocks.