Power line cables

Surely if the CD player has an external ps the player doesn't need to be plugged in, just the ps? 

As Fink says - one to each HC.

My mistake. Looks like th CD5 needs both itself and the ps plugged in

Def put them on the HCs! 

Both amp and CD player needs mains supply cables.

Thank you very much Finfan.

Why not experiment? 

Or you could buy a lot of new music for the price of two powerlines....

David  - I used to be very sceptical on the issue of powerlines..............

Source first, or source PS...

Thank you for all of your help. It's power supplies then. Cheers. 

Like HH says though, have a play around. See where you like them best. There's no hard and fast rule. Let us know what you find and where the cables end up.

The Strat (Fender) posted:

David  - I used to be very sceptical on the issue of powerlines..............

You should try the Chord Sarum Super ARAY power cable  

Will do.

I've read excellent things about them. 

Chris Dolan posted:

The Strat (Fender) posted:

David  - I used to be very sceptical on the issue of powerlines..............

You should try the Chord Sarum Super ARAY power cable  

I have - they work particularly well on Roksan TTs!

Just test. But I would start with an amp and its HiCap.

It is just a matter of testing and comparing back and forth. I am a bit surprised by the choice to add HC on both XS's. PL will even exacerbate the more forward and immediate presentation that may already be somewhat aggressive and leading to listener stress and fatigue. I would have considered keeping a FlatCap on one XS to compensate for a more relaxed and airy presentation.

Chag -

One powerline definitely goes to HiCap DR. It is no brainer and the other is matter of choice but I would say the amplifier.

I've found no logic-based rules with PLs and based on my experience having fewer PLs than components you can throw 'source first' out the window. I have two PLs and have tried them variously between SN2, Nait XS, CD5X, FCXS, and HCDR configurations. Bottom line is that PLs offer a noticeable improvement used anywhere in a system. Having said that, the least improvement came using a PL on my CD5X. I currently use my two PLs on my SN2 and HCDR, but I'd suggest you're best off doing the trial-and-error legwork yourself and arrive at your own conclusion. 

Thank you for your excellent advice. 

When I had CD5x/FC2x and one power line after much experimentation(after I'd run it in on the power amp) I found the most musically satisfying results with it on the CD5x, much to my surprise. The plug order was from source (1st) to power, the opposite of what some prefer and this might have an influence. On the other hand maybe you won't hear much difference.  Suck it and see.

For running in a power line it was suggested to put it on the PC for a week but I didn't try that. The idea is to get a range of frequencies down it.

I can't help thinking that your system is a little unusual, and perhaps you are too focused on 'pimping your ride' rather than getting the best core components. At new prices, your system, including 2 Hicaps and 2 Powerlines, would be a little more expensive than a CDX2/Supernait2.

Of course, this is just speculation, as I haven't heard your system; maybe it sounds sublime, but if so, what are you hoping to gain from the Powerlines? Also, are you working towards a goal in the form of a nicely balanced system? 

ChrisSU makes a good point, but on the other hand individual systems come via various routes and we work with what we have, perhaps making upgrades through opportunistic s/h buys. PLs are good VFM on the s/h market and can be utilized through top end systems, even when you don't know your ultimate goal.

Rather than sweating over the optimal placement for your PLs try to make it fun and swap them 'round after a power down. Take your time and see where you think they work best. You may find your preferences change over time so it's really nothing to worry too much about in the near term.

+1 to Joerand's post above.