10/3 or 10/2 to each outlet?

Thanks guys. So the only reason for using 10/3 with dedicated lines would be to use the extra hot as an isolated ground. Do you use an isolated ground only in the instance where you have a sub panel needing its own grounding rod? Ideally I'd like to use the main panel's grounding system and breakers from there. How do you wire each outlet in a duplex separately so that each are dedicated. Do I need 2 runs of 10/2 to each duplex? Can I actually use 10/3 for this application? Thanks again. I am just concerned that if I am going dedicated, a CD player and processor sharing the duplex is not really dedicated. How can I separate? My plan once this is sorted out is to run an outlet box with all these duplexes(4) within it. Might do 2 separate boxes with 2 dedicated duplexes in each mounted to the floor.

Jeffcot is abslutely spot on about sizing the run to the sub panel correctly. Any potential benefit from shortening the individual runs can be lost by undersizing the feed to the panel. If you use this method, be diligent about checking polarity when you hook up your system for the first time. Don't assume that the electricial has wired everything properly.

Dave, first of all your electrician will run the wiring according to code - regardless of what you suggest to him. The only thing he'll consider is wire that is sized bigger than required that will physically fit the outlet or breaker. For example, he won't accomodate you with a 30-amp branch circuit breaker, floor outlets, 10/3 wire with common neutral or a secondary ground. All are no-no's with respect to NEC and most local codes - he'll explain why.

If you want an isolated ground, ask for "hospital grade" wiring, aka "Type MC" cable. This aluminum-armored cable comes with the extra green wire, that is 10/2 MC will have a black white AND green whereas 10/2 "regular" (or BX) will only have black and white. Regular BX 10/3 will have black, white and red - no green. Can't use RED for ground with most codes. If you're using Romex, then the green comes with the wire - that is, 10/2 romex has black, white and green.

The use of 10/3 wire is intended to be used in switched outlets where you want to continue the circuit power independent of the switch to the next outlet. Commonly used at receptacles that are switched on by a light switch and ceiling fans with separate motor and light control. Sometimes it's used by stingy homeowners to run two circuits with one neutral - saves a run of cable.

Installing a sub-panel is a very good idea if you can swing the cost. Your electrician will be able to recommend the correct size for your application. I would overkill the wiring to the subpanel by sizing them according the the panel rating. E.g., if it's a 100-amp subpanel run three #3 wires in 3/4-inch EMT, if it's a 60-amp subpanel, run three #6 in 1/2-inch EMT. Again, trust a competent electrician above all else.

Canucks0:
Gs5556 is both knowledgeable and thorough. Listen to what he is saying.

I know it has been mentioned before, but, be sure to ask your electrician to check it carefully. The importance of a bullet-proof grounding system cannot be overstated.

If you are concerned about isolation, ask the electrician to install dedidated isolated ground circuits. The definition is in the thread I referenced earlier. These circuits will use 10/3.

If you want maximum digital isolation, simply provide a seperate circuit for each device. Otherwise, put the processor on one digital and the CDP and DVDP on another digital. What are the chances that you will use both players simultaneously?