Glancing back at the pic you posted it looks like your cloud has the longer cord, meaning it's not the newest make. I know it's little consolation for your loss but many of us have been in the exact same position. Keep your chin up!
I would let the VXC team advise him on his unit. We don't want to get anyone upset for something that may not be the case. In fact I have never even seen a post from anyone from VXC confirming any difference between new or older units aside from the ticking. I am sure they wont let you down brewer - I personally will pray to our mary jane higher power for a speedy recovery for your cloud.
We weed nerds need to slow our roll
BTW - I mean this in a positive sense, no disrespect to anyone. Just don't want to see anyone upset about their toy if they don't need to be.
EDIT - I just got my shower cap HT - all I can say is hey, "it's swagger yo" lol. I fucking love it! I cannot believe how little water you need - it almost feels like I'm doing something wrong. Also, how the heck do you get the water out? I assume this is going to be a task to clean.