the fc1 on Hephys are the reason I've always used them, it can make putting a suit together much easier (the extra resist may help here, too, or may allow you to run reactive armor if resists are a real issue). It's also nice when combined with a FC1 spellbook and 2/6 on jewels to reach 4/6 if you have spelllweaving on your template. Another benefit is the dci if you're using a mage weapon or defensive wrestle.
however I have recently went with a soul charge legendary myself, and I like it so far. I run Wraith form heavily, but when I need to be mounted the soul charge is helpful, as I'm a bit spendy on mana.
there are good shields that aren't 30, one with 20 might be more in your price range if that's a concern. Another benefit to hephaestus though is you can always grind and get one.
The museum chaos shield has fallen a bit out of favor with more powerful options available now, but it has a place as well. If that ring or brace has the +skills you need but not the FC/FCR, and you feel it would be worth sacrificing the slot you could go this route. And I bet these are very affordable in comparison.