I don’t know if this answers the question specifically but, in my system I am initially sense (hear) the “general or house sound” of the cable. Whether that be lean, more bass, midrange, muddled, shrill, etc etc. Then as you go up the line on a cable it’s all about the resolution, micro details, sound stage. This is particularly true with a couple of the brands I have ie: analysis plus, and nordost. In particular, Nordost has a great general sound that treats the highs in a very appealing way (without any edge), and bass that is authoritative and not bloated. This rings true throughout the line where Heimdall is the sweet spot for me. Now when you move up to Valhalla, the details, micro details and balance is amazing. The bass is clean and punch that’s not bloated in any way. My favorite, Valhalla use from my preamp to amp.
So, before I get way off tangent I look for these descriptors and how the reviewer uses them to get a general feel for what the cable might sound like. Then it’s all about how they sound to. Hope I came close on this question.