Tech-

I totally agree. When I built my home theater, I conducted my own test and no one could tell the difference. I highly recommend http://www.bluejeanscable.com/ or http://www.monoprice.com/home/index.asp. I have cables from both and they are high quality and very affordable. Monster's ad budget dictates their high price (as well as the gullible consumer). Bose does the same thing for their over-priced under-performing speakers.

Alarkyokie - I agree 100%..always check sources. Personally, if you don't need the flexibilty, I prefer 14 AWG home electrical wiring for long speaker runs.

Check this site out...http://www.bigscreenforums.com/. A fair amount of opinions but finding one supporting Monster or Bose will be tough.