Though for maximum performance you ideally should avoid connectors with metallic connector cases. Certain super high end manufacturers will only use plastic cases on DIN plugs or phono plugs or use a small part of metal on part of the case… but yes there are a range of designs. I only use plastic case DIN connectors… as well as my Hilines… I appreciate the difference, once you have been there it is irritating to go back to metallic cased connectors with high end sources.
However if that sort of performance is not important for you, then go for more robust metallic cased plugs… they tend to look nicer as well.
Well if you live near a dealer so as to mitigate perceived risk, I wouldn’t rule out a HiLine. There seems to be a strong divide between those who have it falling apart every two minutes and those who’ve had it a hundred years with no problem.
When I experienced repeated ‘fun and games’ with my hi-lines, my dealer was very helpful and provided a very decent trade in contribution for either a superlumina cable or chord sarum prior to naim carrying out repairs. Either of these cables are more expensive however, neither of them have self-destruct inclinations and well worth it for peace of mind. I am not familiar with avoptions products so you may be doing the equivalent in your particular market place.
I have no idea. The Lavender lead is certainly metallic, but for me that more excels on my Nat3 … which is a more bandwidth limited constrained source. … Broadcast FM is a limited detail medium, and the Lavandar accentuates what is attractive in that source audio at the expense of overall accuracy. However with these leads I ensure the collar is unlocked.