Entertainment Center: TVs, Stereos, VCRs and DVDs - Speaker wiring...

Am in the final stages of setting up the new surround system and want to upgrade the wires that came with the speakers.

Have a few related questions...

1) Considering a max run of +/- 35 feet, would 16 gauge be okay? Also need to consider that I will have to run them under a baseboard and space is limited.

2) Is "Monster Cable", or equally expensive options, really necessary? Obviously not a pro musician or audio tech so do not want to spend big $$$ for a difference I will not even notice.

3) In relation to 2), what are some good mid to low priced alternative cable manufacturers?

4) Any particullary good sourcing experiences for cable & connectors?

5) I also need a switch so I can run two sets of speakers into one set up outputs. What do I need to consider on the switch to ensure that the dignal is not degraded by the switch?

Considering this is not a place for advertising, maybe 3 & 4 would be more appropriate via private message?

Any advice all you audiophiles out there could offer would be greatly appreciated!

Cheers.

1. yes
2. no
3. Home Depot generic
4. www.partexpress.com
5. The signal will be degraded some by the switch.

Thanks again Stereoguy.