Audioquest vs Analysis Plus?

You get a lot of performance for the money with AP.  I have used Oval 9's and Blue Oval in a couple of different systems.  They provide nice clarity and bottom end and are just slightly forward, putting you in the first 10 rows versus mid-hall.  The copper oval in IC and oval 10 PC are also great for the money.

Have not heard AQ rocket 88.

Lots of good choices in your price range:

Kimber 8TC
Straight wire
Goertz

Jmc I know we have always differed  on AP.  I am guessing the solo crystal you had is more forward than the Oval 9 - I have not heard that level in my rig.

I have only heard the lower models that I mentioned and I believe it is a little different - but I could be wrong.  You are like my wife - usually correct.  :/)

Nutty is on to something - SW Serenade is a nice under 1K SC.

Dave_b, always been a fan, it was my first high end cable (music link pre-network) and have had many models since.   Also run them in 2 separate HT systems.   

The issue is the cost of entry for 2 channel, can easily cost more than the components if you are not careful.