Okay, so how many of you are using 12 gauge? My question relates to the amount of copper wires, intwined behind the rubber core. Monster cable is what to 12 gauge wire? My front speakers are approximately 4.5 feet from my receiver, with the rears at 8 feet. Does one really need the expense of Monster cable? Is it that important to have as many copper wires, as one can get? Am I misinformed as to what Monster cable is? My old Sansui's just have the screw down cap. I have cut back the rubber approximately one inch,from the end of the wire, and inserted the bare part, into the post cap. I have noticed, that after a period of time, that the screw down, comes loose, and I can hear the difference between left and right. Not sure I understand that, must be the little gremlins living inside the speaker box......