Great post, @dabassgoesboomboom.
I stopped hunting for perfect USB cables and HDMI cables a long time ago. I buy quality reasonably priced cables that sound great and stop there. I make my own interconnects using Duelund DCA20GA and quality connectors. I use Duelund DCA16GA for speakers cables as well.
I have a DAC, tube preamp, and tube amp I like a bunch and I listen to music. I am a music lover that uses equipment to listen to music…I am content with my setup. The only upgrade itch I have is for speakers…