Jeff Rowlands Amp and Dac vs. VAC amp and DAC

That is an interesting suggestion! I will try the guitars. And get back to you. Thanks!!

See, it is clear, cables are very subjective! Also, within the various brands suggested there are different grades. So that is also a question. 

Also, in terms of cables (interconnects), perhaps I could look for something used? E.g., these are available at a dealer near me (I have no idea how old they are):

Nordost Valhalla XLR 1M interconnects. B-stock cable with a minor blemish, functionally perfect. Top tier resolution from top to bottom with an expansive soundstage. $4499.99 MSRP when current. Asking $1895 (in Canadian Dollars).

Rinpoche,
Please if possible listen to the Nordost cable with your system . These are expensive  and you may not even like them once heard ( or you may love them, who knows). This brand of cables does little for me but of course that's merely my impression, others find them terrific. 
Charles,

Hi Rinpoche,

Regarding the interconnects that would be used at the output of the Aeris DAC, I note the following statement in the Aeris’ description:

Transformer balanced XLR line outputs provide outstanding output common-mode noise rejection, eliminate potential ground loops, and ensure compatibility with other equipment.

I also note that it has a 120 ohm output impedance, which although not especially low is considerably lower than in many other designs.

I suspect that those factors will result in that DAC having somewhat less sensitivity to cable differences (at its balanced analog outputs) than would be the case in many other circumstances. Especially if the length that is necessary is only 1 meter, as most analog cable effects are proportional to length.

Best,
--Al

Okay, I listened to both guitarists. And, here is the thing, I liked them both! Yes, at first I was drawn to Conde, but on second hearing I felt equally involved in Montero. In a way, an ideal test would be if they played the same piece. I see the differences you are getting at. Softer and warm on one hand, or crisper yet musical on the other hand. Very interesting test. Thank you. 

As for the interconnect cables, it just looked like a good deal. I am sure my dealer will also have suggestions. If I could find something good that is used I would save some a bit of money. I will use balanced XLR for sure. I don't think I need more than 1 meter.

I have a colleague who swears by a cable made locally that costs $45.00. He has tried many cables and goes back to this one regularly. He said it might be a great place to start? 

rinpoche not sure what your system configuration is now or how you were listening to music before or if your going to need balanced or single ended cables. All that being said given the fact that you have Crystal speaker cables this looked interesting:
https://www.audiogon.com/listings/interconnects-crystal-micro-silver-60-interconnect-2016-05-29-cabl...
Same brand so hopefully some synergy there, affordable at $275 used and the seller is in Canada. I don't know the seller but plenty of positive feedback and buying affordable used cable is typically an easy and very low risk proposition.