Buy used! I went from monster to Bi-wire BlueJean 10 gauge cables for my speaker wire. I then purchased AudioQuest Oak Bi-wire, Bi-amp cables. They were 6K retail and I got them for $1800. Huge difference in smoothness and balance.
I am not saying that these are the best, but purchase high end used and chances are you will be happier than 2k of new.