Which Audioquest XLR?

Kalbi, the problem with asking questions like this is that it totally depends on your own system. If you love the AQ sound right now, then you PROBABLY will get better performance by upgrading.
I have found and I'm sure I'm not alone, that going up in someone's line isn't always best forKeith, do yourself a favor and check out the 20's.....;)your system. I've had cables in and out of my system over the years and more often than you would think, upgrading changed the sound, but not always for the best. Often times the use of silver just didn't work well with what I was using. I can say that anytime I've heard the AQ cables go from using the DBS units or not, the DBS cables were a big upgrade.

You really need to get some cables into your system and audition or you will keep chasing your tail. Should your system sound better by upgrading in the AQ line? Most probably yes. if the price is right, I'd just go for it as you can sell them if not, but you'll most probably be happy with going for the upgrade. Good luck and let us know what you end up doing. Colorado or Columbia used would be nice places to start.

I just wonder how many have heard a system with truly no noise. I suspect not many. When you do hear it,...the unmasking of shadings and articulations is very stunning.

String, there is always noise on the line no matter what companies do to try and get rid of it. I've heard some serious systems that have dedicated, grounded yada yada...special solid copper cable with silver coating, special outlets and power conditioners etc.... Bottom line is that you are dead on. It's the noise and grudge that masks things. Everything is affected and in a big way. the better your system, the most you hear so you will notice the differences even more, but I've heard systems that are not expensive, but have been fed very clean power and WOW....

I have a regenerator (the original Richard Gray) and I notice a difference when I use it vs direct into the wall. We pulled the surge protector out at the dealer years ago and that made a big difference. I need to focus on cords now as I don't have any aftermarket ones. I'm waiting to see what AQ comes out with when they come out with their new Niagara conditioners. I assume they are coming out with even more serious cords then, but not sure. I have really liked the Nordost cords and power strips too.