Need guidance on isolation devices


I'm looking at venturing into isolation devices for my stereo. I have none, and I've been reading quite a bit, but as usual when I first get into these matters I'm somewhat confused and would appreciate guidance from experienced users.

My system is not the highest resolution, and is in transition: Rotel CD player, Rotel preamp, McIntosh MC275 (tubes). The system is in front of the speakers, about 10 feet away.

I'm thinking of building isolation platforms sitting on air (bike tubes), and sand-filled boxes. Been reading about these, about tiptoes, and about heavy weights on devices such as cdps.

Which of the above, or combinations, are better suited for each component I own?

On which component should I focus first? Where would you expect me to perceive the largest improvement in sound?

Thanks in advance!
lewinskih01
I'd suggest reading Art Dudley's article in the June Stereophile. Isolation devices can affect the sound but not always in a beneficial way.
forgot. I also have had good results with bright star isonodes. They are another safe way to get your feet wet in this area for less then 30 bucks. They sound different then the herbie's stuff. But different is not better or worse...
Thank you all indeed! This is very helpful.

So source first. Will look into all these options, but the tips give me a great starting point.

Mapman: currently the system sits on an Ikea MDF piece. Not good, I know. The rack is the first thing I know for fact I need to build, and I believe I've read enough about how it should be done. I'm asking about sand boxes and air bladders precisely because they would take a lot of room and if I find them "necessary" then I want to make sure I build enough room when I put the rack together. That's why I want to experiment with these first.

Should something else come to mind, please keep it coming!

Thanks again!!