Interconnect under $200 new or used.....

I picked up some new Audioquest King Cobra's and I am very impressed with the air and sparkle, without soundign harsh. Similar to the older Python's for much less money. I think you can get them from Audio Advisor with a 30 day trial period if you don't care for them. You could get Hero's from AA as well, compare and return the one you don't want.

Paul

Tara Labs RSC Axioms are working well for me.
Craig

I would recommend the Virtual Image Pile Driver 18 IC's. The list price is $225 for a 4' pair, but right now they are at an introductory price of $175. Virtual Image also offers a 30-day return policy. I just recently bought these to A-B against some Straightwire Crescendo's, I sold the Crescendo's. If you are interested you can e-mail Virtual Image at virtualimage@juno.com. IMO, if you try these, you'll love them.

I would recommend RS Audio Silver IC. 99 unshielded or 139 shielded for 1m. They work very well for me and have a 15 day money back guarantee. http://www.rscables.com
Also, i'm still waiting for them to arrive, but audioparts ICs are supposed to quite nice and are only 60 for 1m http://www.audiopartsinc.com
There's quite a bit said about both on the cables forum at audioasylum.com

btw,i would try to stick to well known brands till you train your ear in hearing the differnces between cables.

lesser known cables are fine with a money back guarantee, however trying the "main" players first would allow you to sell them quickly if you dont like them.

plus you can compare the lesser known cables without risk and hear for yourself againest a known refernce.

the smaller less known companies are fine if you find a synergestic cable and want to hold onto it, otherwise good luck in try trying to sell it.

hope that helps,

mike