Considering switching to XLR cables,

I like the positive lock of XLR connectors

I have had XLR's for years and years, and I only just had to purchase an RCA set for the Coincident Frankenstein 300b amp I just got. 

I now prefer the tightness of the RCA over the XLR connection- It always bothered me how XLR's seem loose fitting- I can still wiggle them in their sockets, even though they are "clicked-in". And in some cables the male end of the XLR does not even have a slot to click in, like the Neutrik's on my Nordost Tyr2's, so they are much looser than most RCA's.

In my experience, a reputable dealer will often let you try different cables so you can determine sonic preferences for yourself. Yes, there are some known synergies. I had a slew of different "high end" cables in the house that I owned when I began building the core of my current main system in around 2006. I found the Kubala-S Emotion- which I think was their top of the line at the time to "gel" with my system and Joe Kubala visited-- he made a custom loom for my Avantgarde Duos. I use XLR even on the Lamm SETs which are not balanced and eventually upgraded the interconnect between the phono stage to line stage to the "Elation." These cables do have a synergy with my particular gear- which is all tube based with horns (except the mid bass woofers and additional subs)

When an XLR connection failed, Joe reterminated the cable for me. I encourage you to hear and compare. I did and haven't changed much of anything cable wise for years. I do like the robust connection of XLR, but would not use adapters unless absolutely necessary and then, only temporarily. 

Thank you for all your comments.  Regarding the Kubala Fascination RCA IC and speaker cables.  When I purchased the Magges a will back at the time  I compared the Kubala to Nordost cables and another pair that I don't remember.  At the time the Maggies were not broken in so they were very bright with the Nordost.  YOu may know that Maggies can take a year to break in which I wasn't aware of at the time. The Kubala had a overall good balance and tamed the brightness so I purchased them.  IMO and my system they are probably titled to the warmer side.  I can't say I'm disappointed with them.  I've always liked the fullness of tube sound and todays products have brought the warmth of tubes and digital a lot closer.  Over time I've moved to all balanced electronics so reason for considered balanced, and also they are recommended by ARC if noise is present, but Pass didn't feel there would be any difference.   I will check with Kubala on the Fascination XLR for a direct comparison..

So I'm considering lower cost cables since  a friend let me try the Kubala Elation XLR (very expensive) between the DAC and the preamp, and I had a cheap pair of Cardas between the Preamp and amp.  The difference was subtle with a more relaxed presentation not necessarily better, and probably not a fair comparison.  the Cardas may have negated the benefit of the Elation.  The major difference in that combination was the gain across the preamp, not that it was needed but present.  I do live in the northeast and definitely in the evening the system sounds much better, cleaner and happy with the  current set up.  So curiosity about any noise that may be present and trying XLR.

At the end of the day in this hobby, always curiously looking to see if there is more in resolution, transparency, without sacrificing weight/fullness of that mid range magic at a reasonable cost.  thanks again. 

@salc for less critical balanced conn I use Gustard XLR cables, featured w/ Neutrik terminations and sufficient quality cable. for critical interconnects Accuphase ASL/C series cables, 1/1.5/3m avail., work the best for me (pricey). 

What are you using for speaker cables, digital cables, power cords, and power conditioning just because all that matters?  While I’ve read nice things about the upper level KS cables the Fascination is at best mixed, which is I think what you’re wrestling with now.  I’d suggest trying these Acoustic Zen Matrix II XLR interconnects that you can get for $725 for two pairs, and if they don’t work out you can easily sell them for little/no loss so very low risk to try.  I have them and they may well preserve the warmth you like — they’re very natural-sounding interconnects — while adding some treble detail/air you may be missing.  Just another idea FWIW, and best of luck.

https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/650192584-acoustic-zen-zero-crystal-matrix-reference-ii-10m-and-15m-rca-and-balanced-11-pairs/