Hi guys!!
In case you are interested in an update, and for posterity, here is my journey with some budget cables.
I purchased 2 new RCA cables:
First: Audioquest Evergreen 6ft: I replaced 3ft Kabledirekts, I didn't notice much difference at first, but after going back and forth a lot, I noticed slight improvements, the audioquests sounded much smoother, especially at high volumes.
Then, I took the cables downstairs to my other system and put them in place of 6ft Kabledirekts in my second system - no difference. Multiple back and forth - I could literally notice nothing.
Second: I ordered Signal Cable - Analog Two 3ft long "Smooth highs, liquid Mids, Real Bass Extension!" Or so they say. I put these in my first system - in place of the Audioquest cables - and they were noticably harsher and mudded at the top. It was immediately apparent. I brought them downstairs and tried them in place of the 6ft Kabledirekts, same result. My wife immediately said, "these sound bad". They made me want to turn down the volume immediately.
So, what's up with that? So many folks love the Signal Cables! I know the package says they require 50 hours of break-in, but, well, breaking in cables sounds ridiculous, and I don't want to waste 50 hours of my life listening to those harsh sounds.
And also - it seems like, from my sample size of 4, 6ft cables sound much better than 3ft cables. I thought shorter would be better! Any thoughts?