Got NBS Omega I cables - Shunyata Hydra now ?

Mikefi, as John suggests, you're going to have to try several cords for the Hydra 8 to decide for yourself which is best. I'd suggest trying the NBS Omega I and a Shunyata Python Alpha for starters. You'll hear whether or not the NBS system approach is best, and you'll be trying an excellent Shunyata cord. You realize these cords for the Hydra 8 need to be 20a cords, right?

By the way, do you have dedicated AC lines in your listening room? IMO, you'd be better off allocating your AC dollars to installing these before spending $1000+ on power conditioning.

Tvad, does this sound familiar? Mike, I was just referrencing a thread where we were talking about the same thing. Now that you are getting into treating your electric as a serious fundemental component in your system (which it is) I would, firstly, go with two dedicated lines to separate your digital and analog. This is an excellent start that will yield you tympanic tingles. I use a Hydra on my movie system, but prefer Audio Magic. If Hydra is the way you want to go, then get two of the smaller Hydras: one for each outlet. The ONLY way to truly isolate your digital from analog. You won't look back. Power cords (and it has been said) are personal and require experimentation. I wouldn't get nuts about outlet to Hydra power cords. Hydra to components should be the best you can afford. Especially to your digital. Happy listening warren :)

Hello Jafox, Tvad and Warrenh
thank you for your replies.
The main problem is that it is almost impossible for me to audition the Shunyata or NBS here in Switzerland ! There are no dealers, particularly for Shunyata. In other words, I would have to take a plunge and then either rejoice or regret my selection.
As for a dedicated AC line, I've got one for my system, but the CD player and SS amp. are sharing it (in other words, not ideal). On top of it, I've got a hifi fuse (copper) servicing this AC line and all plugs in my system are Furutech (rhodium). So, I've done quite a lot, but it is still a "halfway house". What I'm missing is power surge protection and, based on my one-time opportunity I had to audition an old Hydra-8 with Omega 0, a more "liquid" sound, I mean as relaxed as listening to music around midnight. But because we are talking of serious amount of money (around USD 3'500-4'000) I want to make sure I've got the best for this price point.
Finally, I was told that the Hydra-2 would not yield the same result as the Hydra-8, so it seems the Hydra-8 is the way to go, unless I take a different approach and get the PS Audio 500... tough call !

Cheers
Mike

Mike, I've written this in another thread, but I'll repeat it here. I have read comments from users, reviews from reviewers, and I have corresponded with owners of Hydra conditioners, and there is rarely a consensus about which Hydras work best as one moves through the product line. Personal taste and system synergy play an amazingly important role.

You were told the Hydra 2 wouldn't yield the same results as the Hydra 8. In what respect? I use two Hydra 2 conditioners with excellent results, but I will admit I haven't tried a Hydra 8. "Jadem6" uses an original Hydra, and does not like the new Hydra 8 or the Hydra 2. A reviewer loves the new Hydra 8 and says it sounds different than the original Hydra. Better? Not necessarily, but different.

So, it sounds like you are going to have to roll the dice to some degree since you can't audition these products.

Personally, given the choice, I'd go with a Hydra over a PS Audio product based solely on my personal experience with products from both companies, but I can assure you there a plenty of satisfied users of PS Audio products who will disagree.

If you buy either product used, you will be able to re-sell without getting hurt too badly. That's my suggestion, unless buying used is not an option for you either.

Lastly,regarding cords. Since you can't audition cords, the safest route would be to buy a Shunyata cord if you're going to buy a Hydra conditioner, because of system synergy between the Shunyata products, and because of re-sale value.
Owners of the original Hydra almost universally agree that a Shunyata Vx series cord is best used to power the conditioner, and owners of the new Hydra 8 almost universally agree that it should be powered with a Shunyata Alpha series cord. This is Shunyata's approach, too.

Good luck.

Every manufacturer (my experience) recommends their own power cords (if they make them)for their power condtioner. Synergy? $$? Wouldn't you do the same? Hydra 2 and 8: same thing. Two outlet vs eight. I'd go with two Audio Magic (in your case 2 Hydras) to two dedicated lines. You're not even close to isolating those digital nasties from your amp. As far as the safest/judicious powercord route? I'd go with Tvad's advice and see how happy you are with your rig.