Selecting the correct thickness for your home theater wiring is important as it affects the speakers' performance; it will impact the speakers' ability to deliver the explosive effects in home theater sound.
The thickness of a wire conductive copper part is identified by its Wire Gauge, normally expressed either in AWG (American Wire Gauge) or SWG (British Standard Wire Gauge). The British standard represent a thicker wire for the same wire gauge number.
Irrespective of the standard you use, a lower the gauge number related to a thicker wire, and a better capacity to pass the amplified audio signal. Good quality speaker wires fall in the range 12 to 16 AWG.
Even with short runs, AWG 18 is the minimum thickness you can go.
When choosing speaker wire, consider the quality of your gear. In other words, the build-up quality of the speaker wire should match that of your speakers and amplifier. Ensure also that your speaker wire support the power rating of your sound system.
However that quality comes at an expense; thicker home theater wiring is more expensive; hence keep an eye on your available budget.
Therfore, it is recomended to get a quality cable such as the Monster Standard® THX-Certified Speaker Cable which I've bought.
Monster Standard® THX-Certified Speaker Cable
Discover the Monster Difference: Better Performance, Maximum Hookup Convenience
Monster Standard® THX-Certified Speaker Cable features three times more copper content than other cables. This improves power transfer to your speakers so you get the full dynamic range of sound from your favorite movies and music, resulting in a richer, more involving listening experience.
• 24k gold contact Lock-Notch Connections resist corrosion and lock into place for maximum durability and reliability
• Color-Coded Connectors give you simple, error-free hookup of home theater system surround sound speakers
• Large Copper Conductors deliver all the power your speakers need for larger-then-life sound and true-to-life dialogue
• Heavy-Duty Duraflex Jacket for enhanced durabililty, flexibilty and ease of installation
*Based on comparison with popular, all-in-one home theater speaker wire.