I haven't used TV speakers since I owned my first TV! Even in college I used a mini shelf system for sound. A set of "computer speakers" is a reasonable solution. They are self powered and don't have all the extras of a full blown receiver. I use a set on a secondary TV room. The only issue I have with that setup is that some TVs do not allow volume control of the external speakers via the TV remote. You should check that functionality before pursuing this option.
Amazon offers lots of good options. Creative Labs and Logitech are a couple good brands with products in your price range.
Here is one.