Line Conditioner or New Power Cords?

That depends a lot on your power source and how bad it might be. I put 3 Cardas Golden Reference power cords on my Arcam AVP700/P1000/DV79 and Merlin TSM-MX's with very good results, making a very smooth and tonally neutral combo even smoother. Especially notable was dialog for movies which became even better defined (with phantom center). Video was about the same as far as I could tell. On a'gon, CGR PC's are actually pretty reasonably priced relative to many cords.

When I inserted a Sound Application Reference LineStage power conditioner from my 2-channel system briefly, I wish I hadn't because I can't really afford a second one. The video was much cleaner and dynamics were improved for audio. The background seemed blacker causing dynamic changes (quiet to loud) to be much more distinct. I just couldn't justify the cost, so I'd say, at least in my case, the power cords came first but were definitely worth it. A power filter with lousy cords is still going to sound rather lousy, so I'd probably go with the cords.

I agree with Tms0425. As a first step at least a low-to-moderate price power cord on 2 channel and on video/surround a power conditioner. Talking with the the MIT represenative about their power conditioner and the need for power cord, suggested was at least a cord with ferite on each end of it in addition to the conditioner.(Ive' always been happy with MIT accessories)....by the way, liked Tms0425 response/review alot, thanks, Mike.

This is a which comes first thing with some audiophools: the chicken or the egg. There are NO power cords out there that can do what an excellent power conditioner can do. I'd start (it is the way I did mine)with the best power conditioner I feel comfortable with and modest quality cords. That may be the end of your electric journey. In my case, as you can see, I went for different power cords. Dedicated outlets+power conditioner+excellent power cords = electric nirvana. You'll never look back..warren