Powerline vs Flatcap for CD5x

PSU first, then Powerline on the PSU later, in my experience.

Flatcap will have a greater impact imo.

I find the PL gives great VFM once the rest of the system is above a certain level. I'm not sure I would use the PL on a source unless it was already a CDX2/XPS with a Hi-Line and a pre to match. The thing about some upgrades is the system needs to be sensitive enough to let the changes through.

Honestly, I would put that PL money aside for the FlatCap and after the FlatCap still put the money away for other changes to the gear first and if no changes are planned, I would just enjoy the gear as is and not do the PL.

Not knocking the PL. I use 3 of them and they are great but I really think the difference is miniscule/zero unless the rest of the system is up to it.

Flatcap first. But Powerlines are for ever... you will sell the FC one day, but not the Powerlines - and you can get them one at a time.

I started with a CD5x on Rega amps, then the FC2x,  which handily could power a 282 as well when i got tempted, the powerline came after a Hicap and a 250-2 but when i tried it on various boxes I prefered it on the CD5x rather than the FC2x, or any of the others for that matter though I didn't try it on the PSC.

I'd say get the powerline, particularly if you find one at a bargain price it. It will last through many upgrades but the any FC will be out of its depth if you move on from the slim casses.

Ok thank you for the detailed responses, the background behind the question is that my 122x/150x will be replaced during the next few months. I had intended to sell the flatcap as well, but I may keep it and even add a Powerline at some point. If that happens I could try it connected to the flatcap and then the CD5x to decide on the best outcome. 

I have a single PL and at the end it went to the Lingo 3 instead as that is the only best sound I get.

Actually it's a HiCap your CDP needs. But failing that, a FlatCap. PL comes later, assuming you can hear a difference.

A dedicated (no sharing) Flatcap 2x is mandatory for the cd5x IMO.  Not worth owning one without.  Powerline makes a nice improvement for both the cd5x and the flatcap, but is of secondary importance.  It doesn't make me like the bare cd5x.  If there's only one powerline, put it on the flatcap.

As Gary and others posted: FC2x shared by 122x and CD5x first, then PL on FC2x. Both the Pre and the CDP will benefit from it. 

Chag -

Having experimented with the scenario you propose I opted for the CD5x without Flatcap, mainly because I play a lot of rock HDCDs and the FCXS made those sound over-plumped with bass. If only for strict redbook CD listening I'd probably have left the FCXS on. I used a Hiline in both cases which I consider essential for best SQ on a 5x.

I've also tried a Powerline on my 5x, but having only two PLs to use in my system found those worked best on my SN2 and its HCDR. My findings may conflict with others here, but ultimately emphasizes the need to experiment for yourself as you've suggested. Good luck

I agree. HL was in fact the next step after FC2x on 5XS and before any PL. I however went very quickly to nDAC and left FC2x with 122x before sharing it again with T05 XS.  

Chag -