mainstream sleeper audio products....

I have friend who lives in a rural area...with his only options being driving to a best buy magnolia show room...or ordering something offline unheard...any easily obtainable monitors and sub that would suffice? Thinking Pioneer bookshelves that were the rage a few years back or similiar...he just wants good/above average sound with limited hassle...hence the suggestion...maybe a small mirage/Martin Logan sub? Are the Yamaha servo subs in this range a thought?