I've owned an original 9, an upgraded 9 and now (for 3 years) use an SP 14. Of
the three units the 14 (if only for the "bypass" switch) is the best. BUT: none
of the three sound as sweet as my earlier SP-8! The hybrids have better
imaging, better definition, and are quieter, yes - but they're not as musical
as that old "8".
Good luck.