I haven't compared the AQ to anything but have tried a couple touted here and found the DH Labs Glass Master Toslink to rule the roost. At $235 for one meter It's comfortably under your maximum and the way I see it, you'll be rolling the dice and keep moving sideways when you can just get one of the best out there and be done with it. I got mine at a nice 20-25% discount during a holiday sale and they have occasional sales of different cables throughout the year. If you can wait and be patient, you can get a great cable at a great price.
If you can't wait and want glass fiber instead of polished plastic, this one from Amazon was my go to until I got the itch for something better.
All the best,
Nonoise