I side with 2x6spds and I have personally heard a difference between a "few" cables. Just last week I compared a JPS Labs Ultraconductor vs my Kimber 4TC and I still enjoy the sound my 4TC presents.
http://www.kimber.com/4tc.htm
And pricing can be moderate. Yes its not $1.50/foot but its not $150/foot either.

http://www.quadloft.com/hometheater- new HT