Getting mold samples is a critical step prior to spending big bucks on a custom set.
Personally, I prefer all of the CPC molds that have an outer ring design over those that do not. That would include jockey, diasqr, B-mold, cirsqr, hhr, and A-mold, probably in that order in terms of feel, sound, and looks.
That said, I have three full Burt/ASM/CPC sets, all purchased second-hand -- diasqr, A-mold, and FDL (plus two new racks of CPC-produced scrown mold add-ons). But if ordering a new set, it would unquestionably be jockey or diasqr, although cirsqr is a fine mold, too. Cost would have very little -- if any -- input into the decision.
It is my understanding that the A in the A-crest mold stands for American.