unpluggin entire system

Many pieces of audio equipment have two off / on switches… one on the front and one on the back. This is because many have some kind of hibernation or low power mode. 
 

Given the question… we are not really talking about ending a listening session and turning stuff off.. but reaching behind or “shutting down completely a unit” before unplugging. So, you should “shut down” or turn off the rear power switch if there is one before turning off the power conditioner. Many streamers are very specialized PCs and don’t like power shut down. Most components are not sensitive… but not worth the chance.

When turning off any chain of switches it’s best to reduce or stop the downstream current first. So, assuming you have an amp, surge protector, and beraker, here is the turn off sequence:

1. Amp
2. Surge protector
3. Branch Breaker
4. Main house breaker (after all branches are already off, except in emergencies, then go ahead and flip the main at any time)

When turning off the house breaker you should turn off all the branches first, and reverse when turning back on:

1. Main house
2. Branches (1 at a time)
3. Surge protector
4. Amp

The idea is that switches wear faster when they stop flowing current. The arc/spark caused on disconnecting can cause resistance to build up on the switch contacts. Any switch rated for x amps will of course do OK if turned off at rated current, but if you want to be gentle and preserve them try to stop current flow first.

Poweramp first, in my case that’s the active speakers. Pre amp is next. Then Dac and after that streamer and after that internet switch.