Helix or Alpha

Whether you apply a VX or alpha to your CD player will depend on the player. The VX was developed at a time that many CDps were extremely sensitive to hash on electric lines that tended to yield some harshness in the player. This is likely somewhat less of a problem today than it was in the past. I have found the Alpha version of the Anaconda Helix significantly preferable than the VX version for my TEAC Esoteric X-01 Limited. The VX tended to do a slight 'caramelization' of the music, but paradoxically was causing some undue harshness in some tracks. I have written on this subject in some detail in a thread called "A tale of two. . . Anacondas Helix". See the following link:
http://forum.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/fr.pl?fcabl&1146623467&openusid&zzGuidocorona&4&5#Guidocorona

I just noticed you own a Hydra 8, which already contains the FeSi filter pellets. In this case I would definitely use an Alpha on your CDp. . . the VX would add more FeSi sideeffects.

It's also very important to run a good powercord between the wall and Hydra. What powercord are you using on your Hydra 8 between wall and Hydra now? I have an original Shunyata Hydra and I'm running a Shuyata Anaconda Helix Alpha powercord between the wall and Hydra. It's a great combination. It sounds wonderful. The combination added more texture, clarity, speed, dynamics and space between instruments. The soundstage is improved as well. If you're in doubt about what direction to go, you could always borrow a couple Shunyata Alpha and Vx model powercords through the Cable Company. Stan

I can say this about the Alpha series (not Helix) versus the Helix newer series. THe Helix series is more refined and very smooth but the soundstage is more middle row compared to the Alpha (non Helix). I didnt like it in my system and sold it. I had the Python Helix. Other than that I loved it.

If you have a chance to try both, it may be worth the time to do a comparison. I'm not sure there is a pat answer and suggest it depends on what works best with your CD player. From both a Hydra 8 and a Hydra V-Ray, I tried the Python Helix Alpha and Python Helix VX on my Ayre C-5xe and prefer the Helix Alpha.