Try Romex or another type of solid core wire. I fine 12 gauge is great. I wraped multi-stranded 18 gauge(from radio shack) around the exterior sheathing of the romex. Striping each end of the black and red romex 1.5 inches. I wraped the small gauge wire at the base of the striped section and soldered them into place. It was cheap and a fun weekend project. The whole thing didn't cost more than $15.00 and sounds great.
