I suggest you look at the Cardas Clear High Speed Serial Buss. Should fit your price point. It splits the signal and power lines between two cables, similar to the Curious Cable, for better isolation of the signal. I have both, I prefer the Cardas but not a huge difference in my opinion.
USB Cables: beginning the rabbit hole
Time to audition USB cables. I have always used the same cable a 2004 beauty that came with my Mac G4 in 2004, so this should be fun.
A few questions from the team here:
1. Best way to audition so that I can return what I don't like? I'm in the U.S.
2. What brands would you suggest. Budget is <$500 for 1m. I will audition 2-3 to start with. Curious Cables is one.
3. Is there break-in required? If so, what method and for how long?
I promise to report back my impressions here.