High priced power cords and power conditioners????

This is an interesting question.
It is a very good question to.

I would get the cords first.

I am going to go out on a limb here... I have never heard the huge differences between AC conditioners that I have heard between power cords. Maybe it is because I have never tried the Stealth or Shunyata power conditioners? Maybe those two would be night and day from my PS Audio P300 (for my digital)? I do not know either way. What I do know is that the Virtual Dynamics Nite Power Cords that I am demoing are leaps and bounds better than any other power cors I have ever tried by such a margin that I am beginning to beleive that whoever reviews ANY audio product that plugs in a wall MUST review it with SEVERAL different power cords.

Good question Bigkidz.

KF

Do you have your own house? If yes, do you have dedicated lines? Start there if you don't.

If you are in an apartment where you are stuck with the power, then consider an conditioner first. Make it a good one.

Some will not agree, but I have never had any problems using both a good conditioner and good power cords together when appropriate. Issolating the Digital is usually very important. It is the most dirty component electrically.
Many audiophiles use an issolation transformer.

I agree with Sugarbrie, if at all possible get the dedicated lines first. I have (2) dedicated 20A lines with isolated grounds. I use one for digital and one for analog. Total cost, about $250. That's including Romex 10-3, PS Audio Power Ports, and installation (okay, so the electrician was a friend). Still, for the dollar, this was by far the best upgrade I've ever had.

If this is not possible, start with a conditioner. I've found that the farther you start back in the electrical line, the better off everything sounds. I have a Tara Labs AD/6 for the digital line and a Audio Magic Stealth for the analog line. As for power cords, yes, they do make a difference, but it's more of an individual taste thing. You're not really hearing what the cords can do though if your ac isn't up to speed. I haven't tried the Elrod cords yet, currently I'm playing with (2) BMI Whales and a Shark, Powersnakes Cobra and Black Mamba and a Tara Labs 'The One'. I prefer different cables for different applications. I like the Powersnakes on digital gear and the BMI Whales feeding the PLC's. The Shark is on the preamp and The One is on the amp. This is probably not the final arrangement, only the du jour arrangement. I actually prefer The One on source, may have to try another one on the amp. Possibly an Elrod, CPCC Top Gun HCFi, or Shunyata Taipan.
As for overal p/c recommendations, it would depend on what you're using them for. Some cords are better for source, whereas others are better for amplifiers/PLC's. You'd be best to pick a specific componant and ask for p/c reco's for that piece within your price range.

Start as far back as you can though, p/c's shouldn't come first, IMHO.

Regards,
John