speaker and interconnects, how nice do I need

Forgot to mention, I think you have put together a fine system. I heard and thought the X12s to be great. Read the X14s are an improvement and easier to drive.

Check out the Cerious Technologies thread that I started. Low cost extremely high value.

In any case, buy used cables here or on some other website. Cables are like new cars. Their value drops dramatically once they are used.

You can get around the cost factor and end up with excellent cables at a fraction of the new price, buy used or go DIY. I am using (new) AntiCables for speakers and they are an outstanding bargain. I keep toying with making my own silver speaker cables via wire and oversized insulator from http://www.tempoelectric.com/cables.htm  Also, homegrown audio sells DIY kits as well, but they are quite pricy. The finished "Silver Lace" interconnects are excellent for the price. Before I bought the Silver Lace interconnects, I used dirt cheap interconnects from cables to go... (They showed their limitations as I upgraded my components, which is when I switched them out.)

A few years back, I made several power cables according to Chris Venhaus' well-known "recipe", that was a very good decision as they made a huge difference. I believe it is good to go the DIY route for some cables, as you can make a huge improvement for very little cost ...and it won't kill you if you don't like the result.

thanks guys you have given me a lot to look into, helps alot
thanks again, sam