I have owned both and the Acoutic Zen is sooo much better there is no comparison. To my ear the AP is quite dull sounding. The soundstage is phenomenal, but thats about it. The AZ gets just about everything right, not to bright or dull in my system.
I've found another cable that I am really happy with since you posted over a year ago. Argent Audio Jaden Signature. They are certainly worth checking out, I think they outdo AZ and AP by a wide margin. They are available for free audition by Ric Cummings the desinger. His website is www.roomlens.com. They might be touch over your budget, but when you hear them you're gonna freak.
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