Advice on changing power conditioners

[Antonmb]

I'm currently using a 7 year old Hydra 8 in my main system and would like to create some extra shelf space by going to a floor stander behind the rack. Anyone have any thoughts on whether a new PS8 with Defender would provide similar performance to the older Hydra? Would this be an upgrade, downgrade, or lateral move? Or do I need to step up to the Hydra AV? Thanks for advice and recommendations.

[CGabriel]

Originally Posted by Antonmb

I'm currently using a 7 year old Hydra 8 in my main system and would like to create some extra shelf space by going to a floor stander behind the rack. Anyone have any thoughts on whether a new PS8 with Defender would provide similar performance to the older Hydra? Would this be an upgrade, downgrade, or lateral move? Or do I need to step up to the Hydra AV? Thanks for advice and recommendations.

The HYDRA 8 was a reference conditioner back in the day and can still hold its own in any comparison. You are basically comparing a $2500 unit to a $700 unit. To achieve a clear upgrade in performance you would need to consider the HYDRA AV. Or, you could keep the 8. Stand it on its faceplate and put it behind the rack as so many magazine reviewers have done in the past. Just put something under the faceplate to protect it from scratches. BTW, this is why we created the AV - many people were standing the Triton on its faceplate.

Use the money you save to buy a better power cord or just have a cool one and enjoy the music. Cheers!

[Antonmb]

Originally Posted by CGabriel

The HYDRA 8 was a reference conditioner back in the day and can still hold its own in any comparison. You are basically comparing a $2500 unit to a $700 unit. To achieve a clear upgrade in performance you would need to consider the HYDRA AV. Or, you could keep the 8. Stand it on its faceplate and put it behind the rack as so many magazine reviewers have done in the past. Just put something under the faceplate to protect it from scratches. BTW, this is why we created the AV - many people were standing the Triton on its faceplate. Use the money you save to buy a better power cord or just have a cool one and enjoy the music. Cheers!

Thanks Caelin, sensible advice. I never thought of standing up the Hydra. And I do have a couple of older power cables I could upgrade instead.

[DonBattles]

The tweaker in me wouldn't allow me to just stand the Hydra on its face. I'd have to make a base with some outriggers and spiked feet.

[Antonmb]

Originally Posted by DonBattles

The tweaker in me wouldn't allow me to just stand the Hydra on its face. I'd have to make a base with some outriggers and spiked feet.

Another good idea, I'll have to play around with that.

Tony

[matt200sr]

Originally Posted by Antonmb

Another good idea, I'll have to play around with that.

Tony

I have actually seen a Triton installed behind a rack due to space constrains and it actually worked quite well!

This would be my preference with the Hydra 8 compared to the purchase of the Hydra AV.

Save you money for more music!