Elementary Question on Shortening Speaker Wire

You to actually read what he did and what I suggested he do. It seems the wire is not making contact with the metal part of the terminal, that is why I suggested to reduce the size. I see you just asked a question, your standard MOO. Good thing we always refer to rule #1, never listen to Kenjit.

What you did should work. I will usually solder the ends to prevent misc strands reach over and shorting the amp. 
 

So, what to do?

Verify both clips on the receiver have clipped down on their perspective wire and no  strands are touching the back panel or opposite terminal. 
 

Do you have any other wire you can use to verify the receiver to speaker connection works.

If another wire will not work, then you probably accidentally shorted out the amp in the receiver. Look for a fuse on the back of the receiver… usually brown cylindrical protuberance. Turn counterclockwise while pushing in to release. Is the filament broken? If so, go find a new fuse. 
 

Will the OP please let us know what is the make & model receiver we are talking about.

Soldered or not you will get sound assuming everything is working. 

Thanks for everyone's response.  Looks like it was error on my part.  I just didn't have the wire seated in the clip properly.  Everything seems to work OK now.  Thanks!