Johnmadden
Here is a quote from your post:
"Just want to keep the budget low on the setup and spend it on other items that are more important!"
That's better advice than you will get 99% of the time when asking opinions from people who know "more" than you do. Yes, cables make a difference that you can hear. As your components get better and their resolution increases you will notice the difference much more. With the level of equipment you now have, your idea of upgrading real, active components is a much better choice. I haven't heard the blue jeans cable but they do look very good for the money. They should be fine for now. If you must, the AQ is also a very good choice. They sound good and work with a wide range of equipment; Very trouble free product. If it was me, I would get the blue jean cable and put the money into something that will make a much bigger difference.
Here is a quote from your post:
"Just want to keep the budget low on the setup and spend it on other items that are more important!"
That's better advice than you will get 99% of the time when asking opinions from people who know "more" than you do. Yes, cables make a difference that you can hear. As your components get better and their resolution increases you will notice the difference much more. With the level of equipment you now have, your idea of upgrading real, active components is a much better choice. I haven't heard the blue jeans cable but they do look very good for the money. They should be fine for now. If you must, the AQ is also a very good choice. They sound good and work with a wide range of equipment; Very trouble free product. If it was me, I would get the blue jean cable and put the money into something that will make a much bigger difference.