Step 1: Determine listening preferences and prioritize - music, movies? If music, what kind of music? Classical, Old movies, Pop, Rock, Jazz, etc.
Step 2: Set up a budget
Step 3: Make a list of equipment need - AVR or 2-channel Amp, number of speakers.
Step 4: Search the internet for preferred listening choice within budget. Check reviews. Ask friends. And most important, audition. No point selecting some gear if you can't hear what it sounds like and if it is not available easily.
Important: Stick to the budget, no matter what.