Topping D90 III Discrete vs Audio Alchemy DDP-1 + PS 5, which I love

tweak1:  I really can't comment on break-in as I ordered the RAL umbilical when I ordered the AA combo used.  I didn't even try the AA gear until I had the RAL cord so wan't able to gauge them separately.  I tried the stock umbilical a while later just to hear and did not like it at all.  I hope the RAL cable is worth it to you.  It most certainly was to me but I'm a detail freak and that what the RAL cable delivered.  If you're a warm and fuzzy kinda guy (soundwise), then you may be less impressed.

tweak1:  Yeah, the AA DDP-1/PS-5 are an excellent combo and just crazy good for the giveaway prices they are going for on the used market currently.   As soon as I purchased them, I had Revelation Audio Labs make me one of their Passage Cryo-Silver umbilicals.  I've only tried the stock umbilical once, just to get a feel for the difference, and couldn't get it out my system quick enough.  Are you using the stock umbilical?  And I know you responded a while back when I was posting about using slugs in place of fuses.  Have you upgraded any of your fuses, or, God forbid, tried slugs?  

I also have a Bel Canto DAC 2.8, which is fitted with the same slug I use in the AA PS-5, and I found the AA combo to be every bit as good as the Bel Canto.  They don't sound much alike, but I find both portrayals equally appealing.  I'm looking forward to your impressions of the new Topping DAC 90 III

tweak1:  you have a very nice system!  And the right tweaks make a heck of a difference!

For me, in my system, the difference was pretty big.  The stock umbilical was quite veiled in comparison.  I think it was more forward sounding, which wasn't necessarily a bad or good thing.  Images were less distinct and flat sounding on the stock cord.  And brightness has been an issue in my system; the big titanium Eton mids I use have very good detail but can veer off into brightness so I've to be more aware of matching other components and cables with the upgraded umbilical but I really can't imagine having to go back to it.  For me, the RAL cable has been a no-brainer.  Hopefully it will be worth it for you too.