Seems like you're still in a DIY mindset, looking at the bits versus the whole package. Having drivers in mind helps give some idea of your priorities, but the advantage of buying speakers (versus parts) should be gaining synergy/integration where you shop for the bottom line overall performance, so you can enjoy music not listen to drivers. Maybe that's part of what your wife is encouraging in you.
If you really want to lose clutter, I'd look seriously at active speakers and ditch the amps, crossovers, drivers, and wires. In your price range actives intended for home use (enjoyment versus analysis) Adam, ATC, Meridian, and PMC come to mind.
