My preworkout Supps - when to take?

[Team Hoss]

I've recently researched and concluded that I will combine the following supps for a pre workout concoction:

citrulline malate
beta alanine
micronized creatine mono
arginine (L-, or ethyl ester, jury still out on including this one.)

Should I take these on an empty stomach and then eat an hour later before my workout? Or can I just mix it with some whey protein 2 hrs before and then eat an hour later?

What do you folks think is the best method? I'm trying to decide whether to buy powder or caps.

Thanks,

Hoss