So, my speakers put out a slight "hissing" noise. This happens when I'm watching TV, listening to a CD, watching a DVD - basically everything louder than -40 or -50 dB. While my setup isn't great (college makes for cheap sound systems), I certainly don't think it should sound this dirty. Here's what I have:

A Pioneer VSX-D411 receiver, an RF Modulator for the tv, four Technics floor standing speakers, an Apex DVD player, a JVC CD player, and an old Philips VCR.

All the speakers are connected with cheap 16 gauge "Acoustic Research" speaker wire (no gold pins or anything). The components are all hooked up with very basic cables (the connections are silver... nickel plated?). My first thought was that the speakers may not be shielded - they are, however, and each speaker is at least 5 feet from the TV.

My question for you guys, the gurus of the audio world, is what could be causing the hissing? I should point out that the hissing appears to be the worst with DVDs and TV.

What is the most likely culprit: cheap speaker wire, cheap connections, the RF Modulator?

Thanks in advance.