I too have an older pair of AQ Topaz that I am cannibalizing in order to use the RCA's for another set of IC's. It probably wouldn't hurt to take the barrels off to make sure the rings are on the correct end (or simply the same on both cables) in regards to the shield being connected, as Marakanetz pointed out. Make sure you take out both set screws on each end before unscrewing.
I used the rings as a reference to keep them in the same direction, as arrows are used now. Once you've established which end is which you can experiment to see if there's any difference.
I used the rings as a reference to keep them in the same direction, as arrows are used now. Once you've established which end is which you can experiment to see if there's any difference.