Rgs92, thanks very much. Since the EMM X upgrade and the Synergistic Research PowerCell 10SE (that includes a new model Tesla Plex SE, a Precision Reference power cord with a 3-lead option and a standard MPC) both promise 3D sound reproduction I will opt for the SR. I have no way of knowing which 3D effect would be more pleasing to me, of course, and I have no way of A/Bing the two, so this is a crap shoot. But setting up my system, not being able to audition ANYTHING, has been a crap shoot. I have let my intuition be my guide and, frankly, I am more that happy with the results so far. I already have a partial 3D effect since I started tweaking my system and it is very agreeable. Any added 3D effect from either option would be first class, I'm sure, albeit different in one or another respect. I agree with you that tonality is #1 and the EMM CDSA SE provides me with wonderful tonality right now -- enhanced by my many tweaks. The thing is that the PowerCell will not only treat my EMM it will also treat all the other components and cables in my system so the synergy should be excellent. If I add the Galileo MPC the sound should be truly outstanding, including an enhanced sound stage -- one of the main improvements promised by the EMM X and the SR PowerCell. Two other factors that I have considered are that going the SR route provides me with more versatility. If, one day, I change my CDP I will still have the PowerCell. The other factor is that, since I live overseas, having the EMM X upgrade done would be very costly -- shipping both ways. The SR option will save me a lot of money. Also, doing an EMM X upgrade would mean no music for quite a while, whereas when I pick up the PowerCell next month it will be in my system when I arrive home. For you the EMM X upgrade may be the best choice since you already have the Hydra and excellent cables. I don't have a power conditioner yet and I have such a complicated mix of cables that treating the whole system right from the wall receptacle seems to be the most logical approach for me to take and looks like it will give me the best chance at having a better sonic experience. I will soon be adding more Totem beaks and a few sets of SR MiGs to the system, too. IMHO, you can never have enough top quality tweaks in your system. Each one adds to the synergy.