Outlet is "Open Ground" - Is There Still a Safe Way to Connect to My Audio Gear?

All I know is when the amp was plugged directly to the mains, it's metal front cover conveyed some minor current flow and when plugged into the Panamax, it was resolved.

I am not in a position to rewire my entire home either DIY or via a paid professional. I also don't own equipment anywhere near true audiophile or reference level cost or performance.

@motown-l  I understand money is a concern, but this sounds bad.  Not saying you need to rewire your home, but it sounds like a lifted neutral which can cause all sorts of electrical and life safety issues. 

Strongly suggest you get the cheap-o tester I recommended and see what it t4ells you, then consult with an electrician.  It's quite possible this is a small fix, and if it's a major fix it may well save your home. 

You should get the grounding issue fixed, but the only "fix" for this I know of is to use a GFCI outlet and label it with the sticky labels that say "No Equipment Ground." 

However, not ideal and most surge protectors won’t work correctly in this state.  This will however save your ass in case of a short to the chassis. 

I’d suggest you get a cheap-o 3 plug tester like this one and validate that it’s wired correctly, or not, and that the Neutral to Earth value is 2V or less.  Either of these not being true call an electrician.  You might also just want to check the outlet.  It could be the ground wire just came loose, or it might have bee your first surge strip was faulty.  Good to have around especially in a home that's new to you.  Test everything, trust nothing and maybe look at my blog for ideas on good AC for the frugal audiophile