Shunyata Hydra: lifespan, new models?

I've been using Shunyata Hydra conditioners for quite a while now; an 8 for everything except my monoblocks, which are run off a 2. They have worked well in my system.

1) Do these components have a lifespan? Mine are about 6 years old, with moderate use (mostly on weekends).

2) Since I bought mine, Shunyata has introduced the V Ray and recently another one (Talos? -- not sure of spelling). Has anyone compared the newer vs the original? Worth the upgrade??