$800 to spend on speakers, $1500 on whole system

Without question,the Jones Designed new Elac.towers for $600 and respectable.
Schiit Bifrost dac, wired for sound jntegrated. From a computer or lap top 
DB power amp for ripping cds to computer, Jrivers music for your music library 
Operate WiFi through your iPhone ipad, or droid  ,Kimber PBJ interconnects 
And 8 speaker cables . Or buy a few things used. You can always go up in quality
Later.

Use your iPhone for personal mobile only.  Use your 'puter as a source for steamcasters who play your preferences.  Unless you're in a large city, your options 'on the air' are going to be limited even then. (I don't, and local FM bites...NPR is the only 'local' worth paying any attention to...).

Your 'puter will give you massive storage, that's obvious.  But also EQ, recording, and other potential 'opportunities' for whatever might suit your desires, needs, 'boat floaters', etc.

The options and opinions above more or less seem 'sound' to moi'.  Keep as much as possible of your budget available for speakers, 'cause that's where the 'rubber hits the road' ultimately.  And keep in mind that your 'starter system' is a 'moving target', subject to change, at will, subject to budget.  'Audiophiles' have this marked tendency to change equipment perhaps not as often as socks, but on a random time frame subject to...well, the 'closeness breeds contempt' factor seems to fit in there sometimes....

You WILL engage in the above.  It's part of the DNA of the hobby.  Enjoy yourself.  And don't forget to Play Loud.  But don't break you lease...unless that seems necessary. ;)

Thanks a lot. I think I am leaning toward the Peachtree amp with integrated DAC, and a pair of monitors/bookshelves. My reasoning is that is that for the price, I can afford higher quality components, at the expense of some bass. However bookshelves may be enough bass once I try them out. I can also save money and purchase a sub of similar quality down the road. 

I think the triangle speakers for sale on here would sound great with Peachtree gear. Two pair for sale on here in your budget. I just heard some floorstanders at a friends house and they are killer for the money. Very easy to drive which is a huge plus. 

+1 on the Peachtree Nova recommendation.  For speakers, you should also strongly consider the Peachtree D5 bookshelf speakers.  Really decent bass, very good looking, and very underrated IMO.  They are $799, but are an additional $100 off if you buy a Peachtree integrated amp at the same time.