replacing sound system

I need a little help in what is the 'best' direction to take.

Our current sound system consists of an amp, CD player and tape deck. Both the amp and CD player need replacing. This is easy enough, however, there has been the rare occasion in the past where I would have liked to play 2 effects together but was not able to as the amp only allowed one input at a time. I'm considering getting a mixer, but then comes the question of getting a mixer plus amp, or a powered mixer. However, I'd never use most of the features on the powered amp - certainly not the mic inputs, nor the use of so many channels (most powered mixers I've seen are 8 or more channels). I don't what to pay for features that won't be used.

As I'm all new to the use of mixers I need a little help (and clarification). As I've said, most of the time the CD and amp is sufficient, however, it would be good to be able to have a second input to simultaneously play another effect. Is there another way/product that can do this that I should consider?

If anyone have any advise or can 'enlighten' me, I'd be most appreciative.

Thanks

Ciao
Rob

Thou gleeking clapper-clawed bladder!