There is really very little difference between XLR and RCA. Most of us aren't going to need a cable longer than 2m.
I've had some great RCA cables and poor sounding XLR cables and vice versa.
Many high end valve amp manufacturers only provide RCA inputs.
I would say the OP's dilema is in finding synchronicity in his system - we've all been there!
Over the years I've used Cardas as my reference, they get along with most electronics.