Should I Spend Extra Money on Cables?

...Only after you have spent the most you can afford on your amplifier and speakers. 

Nothing is as contentious a subject in the audio world as high-end audio cables. Here are my thoughts.

The impedance of the the wire and quality of the connectors on the end can affect sound quality. In general, cheap wires will have a higher impedance and poor electrical contacts at the connectors. The pros use broadcast quality cabling and connectors from well-known companies such as Belden, Mogami, Neutrik and Canare. These connectors are made from brass that is plated with nickel for added durability and resistance to corrosion. Beryllium Copper, Gold and Rhodium are sometimes used for special high-performance applications, but these metals are costly.  

Personally, I buy the highest quality Beryllium copper or gold plated broadcast cables and connectors and spend the rest of my budget upgrading my amp and speakers. The sound quality improvement achievable by upgrading your amplifier and speakers is much higher than any wire or connector can achieve.

If you already have the best amp and speakers available and want to add a finishing touch to your system, then high end audio cables can be an option. Rhodium is an expensive option, but it is very good looking and rugged and has low contact resistance. Furutech makes excellent Rhodium plated connectors.