recommendation for speaker wire to soften the highs if possible

@gunmetalzin I suggest listening for those harsh highs on headphones to see if the problem surfaces there. If that’s the case, your speaker cables are not the cause, and you need to look elsewhere (try a different source) to pinpoint the culprit. FWIW, I run Monster Standard 12AWG speaker cables from the 90’s, and they perform admirably. I also use Monster Standard interconnects, and listen mainly to vinyl, so ymmv. 

I have four possible solutions for you:

#1) Order a tube preamp from Schiit Audio. Their Saga preamp costs $349.00, takes a single 6SN7 tube.  Sounds great. I have one.

#2)  Order a Schiit Audio Bifrost Multibit Dac for $599.00.  This Dac also is available as a Delta-Sigma Dac for $399.00 or $499.00, depending on topology.  Worth a look.

#3) Take a serious look at ordering Signalcable brand cables. They're inexpensive and so good, I replaced ALL of my expensive power cords, interconnects and speaker wire with Signalcable. I used to use Kimber TC speaker wire, etc. Take a look at the Signalcable testimonials. They are awesome for the price paid.

#4) Don't toe-in your Ryan speakers, or if you need to, toe-in your speakers very slightly. Ryan's can get hard/harsh with toe-in issues.

Hope this helps. What's nice about all these products is they perform extremely well for not a lot of money (in the audio world). You can order pieces as you can afford. Check out Schiit Audio.  They make nice headphone amps too.

How sure are you that the irritation you are hearing is from the wire??  If you want rolled off cable, get used Cardas...though I would make sure the problem is there.

The bulk Duelund 12 gauge is exactly what you are looking for and in budget. Another good one is the Western Electric 10 gauge bulk wire. If you can DIY a set, then go for it. If not, I and others can build you a great looking and sounding set of speaker cables. Both the bulk wires mentioned above will certainly improve the tone and sound quality in the all important presence area of your system. Both have great natural tone and meat on the bones texture. 

If you have a local HiFi store why not start with them and drag some cables home to listen for yourself how your Monsters compare? I think many shops are more than willing to let customers take stuff home to try it before you buy. If you’re nowhere near anything try the Cable Company.

I had a set of Monster Cables in the late 80s and I’d say if anything they were more rolled off than being bright. Could be so many things like speaker placement to room treatment and the placement of your listening seat in your room.

 Everyone’s going to have a different opinion on cables but in my experience I believe dedicated outlets, use at least a hospital grade receptacle and not the $2 one most homes have then power cables is the place to start. I’d suggest do this first if you haven’t before you go on the cable merry go round.