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Surge protectors--how many $ make sense?

My power went out during the LA fires. A power spike blew my preamp's fuse even though it was plugged into an ancient Monster transformer surge protector. So, I need to buy something to plug my gear into. The prices, however, range from a few hundred dollars to many thousands of dollars. Surge protectors have never been at the top of my list of equipment to buy, but I think it's time.

I have a fairly expensive system, about $75K, consisting of VPI Prime Signature turntable, ARC PH-7 phono preamp, McCormack CD (universal disc), Pass XP 30 preamp, Moon streamer, and Hovland Radia amp. New equipment mixed in with old, but all very good stuff. I've never compared surge protectors. So, how little can I spend on a surge protector without disrespecting my previous investment? 

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mikhailark
328 posts
 

You may want to consider entire house surge protection instead. There are commercial/industrial solutions like from Siemens with $75K insurance for 10 years. These are REAL things that WILL protect (Monster never protected mine, it is all lies). And they do not cost $$$ more like few hundred dollars. Talk to a professional electrician.

https://www.siemens.com/us/en/products/energy/low-voltage/surge-protection-devices/residential-surge.html

I am sorry, but I will never again buy any "audiophile" or "home equipment" surge protection. I rather get equipment that is used to protect really expensive professional stuff out there backed with money guarantees. I guarantee you, big recording studio is not using any Monster or anything "audiophile".

zlone
709 posts
 

A system at the level of yours deserves a bit more than a plain old surge protector. But definitely invest in a whole house unit, they are relatively cheap. For your system, do some research and invest in an audiophile level power system, either passive or active. I have tried the passive route with okay results, but now have dived down the regeneration rabbit hole with PS Audio with very good results. 

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cleeds
5,982 posts
 

Surge protection is a good thing for all the appliances in your house. If your utility allows it, a Type 1 protector installed in your meter panel is an excellent first line of defense. My electric utility doesn't allow use of Type 1 protectors, so I settled on the next best thing, which is a Type 2 installed in the electric service panel.

I have power conditioning installed ahead of my audio components, but I don't think of those units as surge protectors.

 

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