speaker and interconnects, how nice do I need

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

Transparent makes some great cables in your price range

I second the Type 4

Make your own, make your own.

I would go SUPERcheap - the cheapest you can possibly buy. A few bucks. Then try more expensive cables, and see if they make a difference. You may find that cabling is the least cost-effective way to improve your system,

For line level interconnect, I use pro microphone cable, Canare StarQuad L-4E6S with ETI connectors. Mogami W2534 and ETI connectors is a good alternative. For speakers, I use Goertz. About $200 all in for two interconnects and two speaker cables.

Just one caution - if you are soldering teflon jacketed wire, be very careful to exhaust the fumes. Mogami is probably a better choice for that reason, but I have a soldering station with a fume hood, so I can get away with it.

Works for me, and my system is far from cheap. I would rather spend money elsewhere.