I have owned both (Shunyata Hydra 6) and currently have the Audience Arp2-TO. I can't speak to the newer Shunyata model power conditioners but the Hydra was an eye opener (ear opener) when I first installed it in my system. The unit quited the background noise that allowed my system to sing, wider soundstage, greater air and increased detail. Proof to me that power conditioners are necessary in most systems, as local electrical power is "dirty". I then installed an Audience Arp-1 and everything I got from the Hydra was multiplied significantly. But recently with the purchase of the Arp2-TO (Teflon capacitors) my system has reached levels I could never imagined. IMHO, I would say when comparing the Shuyata Hydra, the Audience power conditioners do a significantly better job quieting the background noise to let the music and all its detail truly be experienced. This is not a knock on Shunyata, great equipment. Go for the Teflon!
