Speaker wires are cables from an amplifier to speakers use stranded wire in sizes from 18 gauge (thinnest) to 12 gauge (thickest). Up to distances of 100 feet, 14-gauge and 16-gauge lamp cord is commonly used, which ranges from $0.25 to $0.50 per foot. However, enthusiasts spend a small fortune on audiophile-grade cables, which can cost virtually any amount. In fact, a pair of 8-foot speaker cables has been on the market for as much as $4,000. Pundits claim they can hear the difference in high-end cables, while most people cannot. See
audiophile and
A/V receiver.