I'm looking to upgrade my current steelhead fly rod setup which is a basic Cabelas 8wt.  Thinking about getting a 10' 7wt Orvis Recon with Hydros SL reel (per recommendation of the Orvis store).  I was hoping some of you could give me your thoughts on this or other options.  This will be a dedicated Steelhead setup for primarily the Erie Tribs.  Thanks in advance. 

I have used the older Orvis Hydro 10ft. 7 wt. With a Hydros reel and love it. It has been a great setup. They discontinued the Hydro rod right after I bought it. It cast well and works great for high sticking or Czech nymphing.

10' 7wt is what I settled on after a bit of research (not orvis). Lamson reel and a store brand rod. Works well for me.

I use a 11' Cabelas TLr rod (spey) 8wt with a Wright Mcgill Sabalo's fly reel. Never had an issue and for my big ol' paws the spey's more comfy. 
 
Wright McGill did the same thing with my reel... Wish I could find another to use for backup.

10' 7" is the go to length and a 7 weight is all you need to properly fight those fish without over playing them.  Reel with a good drag is more important that the rod, you're not making long casts.  I'm using a lamson guru II but there are plenty of decent reels at a good fair price out there.

I use Cabela's TLR in 10" and 11'6". I enjoy them both. I use a TLR reel on them, because it was a very nice price. Lots of backing on it. Kinda big. 

If you didnt buy already, pick up 10' 6W. Most of them come with the fighting butt... 
 
PA fish dont have the gusto for a 7W.... 

I'd recommend a 10' 7wt (mod-fast). Great all around setup, can go from nymphs/eggs under indicators or on a tight line to throwing meaty streamers for fresh fish. I use a Hardy Shadow myself, couldn't recommend a rod more, thing is perfect for Euro nymphing and is an absolute cannon when you need to make long casts. 6wt is fun if you have experience fighting Steelhead but in general it's a bit underpowered and might not be able to turn hot fish if you're running light tippet. I'd go for an 8wt before a 6 but the 8 is overpowered for most* Erie fish.