Are today's interconnects really better?

Yes. Just like all technology, gets better with time. The real improvements are from the smaller companies like Pure Note, Ridge Street, Bogdan, etc. These folks build exceptional products for the money without the astronomical markups seen by the big guys.

Let's just say that it made many of the vintage gear sound better than today's modern preamp/amp and speakers. Why do you think the vintage gear price are going up?
Just my 2 cents

Yes,big time.

I am told that The Cable Company has a lending library of cables. give it a try.

I am still holding to a pair of Emeralds and Argents from way back for ole time sakes. They were my entry into high end cables. They still sound pretty good in the right system. Just not in mine right now.

I did do a long cable comparison a year ago including the Emeralds. Maybe you can find it in the archives.