Least Expensive Power Conditioner/Surge Protector That Won't Worsen Sound

U.K. produced Puritan PSM156, it works and is much better value than anything else.

For a few hundred dollars less than the Puritan PSM156 is the PSM136 - which also works wonderfully.  I doubt you'll go wrong with either model.

@adasdad But I'm wondering if you could elaborate as to what you heard regarding the difference between the two. I understand how they're marketed, but in terms of rubber meeting the road, what differences did you hear, if you articulate them.

By the way,  I thought I read that Garth did design the PQ2 and 3 as well. 

I can say this much that thus far, after a few days, that the images, running through the Panamax m5400-pm, are clearly less juicy. This may improve with break-in. I wouldn't be happy if it stayed at this sound quality.

@buddyboy1, to my understanding there is no difference structurally between the old Niagara 1200 and what is on the AudioQuest website now other than AudioQuest having raised its prices this year. 

@analogj, I appreciate the question. To give you a short answer there isn’t anything or difference that you’re going to be able to hear because a good power cord and conditioner doesn’t add anything. All it does is take away RFI and EMI that will hinder your ability to enjoy recorded music. Here’s a link to a short YouTube video where Garth Powell explains the necessity of having a good power cable. Just search Garth Powell AudioQuest and he’s got several very in-depth and detailed videos where he explains much better than I can the science behind how he designs power conditioners and cables for AudioQuest.