It's a shame i've not used the hybrid, i could then give a better balanced view, i don't doubt that it is a good pole. all i can say is that you will definatley not regret spending the money on the facelift.
My advise to anyone is spend the money on the pole, this is realy what makes all the difference between a hard day & an easy day, day in, day out. It also helps you to make a better job & do the job quicker & easier. not everyone is in a position to spend top dollar on a pole but i would say- make cutbacks somewhere else & buy the best pole you possibly can.
I know people plod along with poles they think are good or good enough ( i did for years ), & the facelift is expensive but from my experience & others on here I don't see any regrets.
tony