^ Again not trying to be rude, just want to give you a brief tutorial to make sure you understand
An "
Amplifier" is just that, it amplifies the audio signal being fed it, so if you're looking for an amplifier you would need a "
Pre-Amplifier" which you can think of as a control center. This unit is what accepts your audio signals (Radio, CD, Tape, Turntable) feeds the "
Amplifier" and controls the volume, bass treble, speaker balance etc.
If this is what your aiming for then you would be looking at finding/purchasing 2 separate pieces of equipment, if you're into AM/FM Radio then you would need a 3rd piece called a "
Tuner"
Think of a "
Receiver" as an all in one unit comprising of an "
Amplifier" paired with a "
Pre-Amplifier" & "
Tuner" all under the same hood.
.. I’d prefer to shop vintage because of my budget but if there are some good receivers out now for around $200 I’d definitely be interested..
My guess is you're looking for a receiver, as you mentioned in initial post, scope out your local CL, FB Marketplace, OfferUp etc.
Another potentially good source would be local Garage/Yard/Estate sales. A lot of us here have found good vintage equipment this way in some cases for very little amounts of money however that was back in the day so good deals are less likely to occur.
Some vintage brands, to name a few, that would fit in in with your vintage vibe
Sansui, Yamaha, Sony, Luxman, Pioneer, Kenwood actually there's a bunch more but those are some brands that folk around here like.
Keep asking questions and I'm sure we'll be able to assist, point in the right direction etc