I just replaced the old string my Pearson Hunter with a new one and the new string is .5" longer which lowered the brace height from 8 3/8" down to 7 7/8".

I have read where each bow will have a sort of "sweet spot" where they shoot smoother and quieter with respect to brace height.........however let's assume I can't feel any difference in shot feel by changing brace height:
Is there a performance advantage to a higher or lower brace height? With the higher brace height the limbs are more pre-loaded, does this effect speed?
I realize that the higher brace height should still provide added forgiveness like my compounds but like the compound are you giving anything up with a shorter power stroke?

Or should I just throw the compound rule book straight out the window and just have fun?