Recommendations for top-notch banana speaker cable connectors

go with spades if possible

I used to agree with the preference for spades, but the new BFA bananas (suggested by reubent and others above) offer better and more contact with the binding post than spades. I’m incredibly happy with the audioquest SureGrip100 BFA/Banana (Silver). They are crimp on connectors and form an excellent bond with the cables, much better than set screws. So between the stronger, larger contact with the binding post and the solid crimp connection with the cables, these connectors (or any other connector of this design) offer an extremely solid connection between the amp and speakers. They are also inexpensive, which is a big plus. Regarding auxinput's worry about getting 10 awg cables into the connectors, I wouldn't worry. My cables are 9 awg and I was JUST able to get every strand into the connector, though, being made from cat 5 cable, the conductor strands are rather stiff.

Todd, et.al,
Thanks for the input from you.  I am thinking I will plunk down a few shekels for the AQ connectors you have recommended.   I am with Todd on the utility of banana connectors over spades.  The GLS connectors, in spite of their purposed ability to be able to be expanded once plugged into the female jacks is ineffectively executed and leaves the connection poorly secured.  Again, thanks for the input from you fellas.  Mark

I've had good results with Cardas copper banana plugs while bi wiring at the amp end. Same success with Cardas binding posts at the speakers. 

Since the header say, top notch connectors, here is my recommendation - 

WBT's
Furutech
Cardas

For your cables, Cardas copper or silver will yield best results within your 'budget'. 

Enjoy!