Gabriel Gold IC's are they really this good?

One problem in comparing these is that we should know the approximate date they were made. For instance, I'm not sure the earlier Raptures are or sound exactly the same as more current Raptures. Hate to throw cold water on this discussion but this was alluded to in a conversation with Steve.
My assumption (emphasize "assumption") is that an early Rapture may be closer to a recent Rev mk2 because the Rapture has changed over time.
If I'm incorrect in this assumption perhaps Steve could step in to illuminate us. If I'm correct then comparisons must be qualified.
I do agree that the Gabriels are outstanding cables at their respective price points although I must admit that I've not heard them all.
Disclosure: I've owned original Extreme and currently using Rev mk1 xlr and 2 runs of Rev mk1 speaker cables. I have used early Raptures in my system for several weeks.

Yub12know, I do have a one of the last cables from the original version of the Rev in another system I have. Since I just received the Extreme MK2 I haven't pulled the Rev yet to a/b, but will comment after I do.

I am interested in Gabriel Gold ICs. However, a read through this thread reveals a sure-fire method to keep Gabriel Gold customers on the IC merry-go-round, and I am therefore pessimistic that any GG purchase will have longevity.

IMO.

evolution of products and advancements in design technolgy are a positive thing in any industry.
the "merry go round" of cables IMO is usually due to the incorrect selection of electronics and the consumers need to mask,color,address flaws in the room,etc or just simply
desire change for the sake of change.
All the GG cables I have/had older or newer sound fantastic.Fantastic is fantastic!
If better becomes available I for one am interested in hearing it.

My post was only meant to point out the fact that I think these cables are evolving in materials and design. No value judgment was intended, only that comparisons might be best weighted; i.e. an early Rapture may not be the same as a current one for instance.

Frankly, I have not heard a Gabriel cable that I would term "bad" or "mediocre". I fully intend to purchase a pair of balanced Raptures in the future if possible.