One thing I do agree with is that "we are headed in the wrong direction". While I do listen and learn and value all of your suggestions, in the end it is my ears and my budget at play. So, there have been many suggestions given throughout this 9 page discussion. Some great, some good, and some .....
I am listening and learning. As I keep telling you all (especially Inna). I am a Canadian and as such I use a Canadian audio site to sell stuff so I do have a very good profile with positive feedback. I don't use Audiogon because they charge a fee and shipping from Canada is expensive. The Devialet is on sale — it sells for 9999 new. I have had few real offers or I would sell it. I would never sell it for the price of a 6000 cable. I just wanted you all to know.
As for AQ, I used them in my last stereo and at the time (15 years ago) they were fine. Now I have Crystal Cable (for very specific reasons — it had synergy with the Devialet). The loaner Transparent sounds muddy, so I will not keep it and have to return it.
However, one of the kind people on this thread is sending me a cable so the immediacy of getting 'the right one' is not as urgent. And, you all know, it is a personal subjective thing — I think we could agree on that? I have been looking at the brands you suggested but have not found anything used for sale. I love used. I am a woman. Oh no, maybe I don't fit the stereo-type (no pun intended!!).
As for being able to differentiate between Vedic Sanskrit and Middle Persian, I am sure you could tell by the script that they are different. But I have to say I found that to be very funny.
One thing I can't digest and yet I respect and appreciate are the technical specifications. I remember when I heard the Sabrinas. Peter McGrath from Wilson was there. So, too, were about 10 men who had gathered for the audition. For the first hour all they did was talk and talk about 'specs' and tweeters and so on. Finally I asked, 'do you think we could listen to them?'. Peter laughed and said, 'oh of course.'
The thing about used gear is that you might not always find what you are looking for!! And I really don't think that goes for houses. I mean, who only buys new houses?
I am a student on this discussion. I have listened and acted on some of your advice. But, I am not bound by it either. R