Quite an interesting discussion. A few things on my end:
1. My current speaker cables are labeled "Transparent high performance 10-2 10 AWG (upgradeable)." I was going to try some used Transparent REF RSC8 (MM2) ("high z", apparently designed for high impedance amplifiers), but the same dealer wants to charge me the full price for a tryout, so I decided against that option (it is not their fault, it is their business model);
2. I use the word "resolution" as in light microscopy. That is, the ability to discriminate 2 signals that are close together. So my objective is to increase the resolution of the system, but it may be that I need to change other components in the system as well. I try and change one variable at a time;
3. I do believe that changing speaker cables may represent the lowest priority in terms of audio reproduction;
4. My next step may be to using the lending library at the Cable Company.
Oldhevymec - the older McIntosh preamps are good - my colleagues are from the Ann Arbor branch of the University of Michigan, not MSU FWIW...
I live in rural Michigan...I do miss 30 years ago on the web with the first USENET groups...thank you for all of the advice and am always eager for the feedback! - the old OP