Surge protectors--how many $ make sense?

@audio-b-dog ,

I would second (third) the recommendation of a whole house surge protector. A licensed electrician can install one at a relatively low cost. And, given that you have a very nice (and expensive system), it makes sense to protect that as well as all the other electronic devices in your home. 

But, if you don't own your home, or don't want to commit to the expense, I would recommend the Audioquest Niagra series of power conditioners. They offer good protection and won't mess up the sound (at least, IMHO).

Bob

Thanks, Bob. I will check out the Audioquest, which I know is sold by Music Direct who has sold me a whole bunch of things. I have read many audio reviews where the reviewer is using an Audioquest conditioner. They do get expensive, however. In my mind, $3K is as high as I want to go.

David

Thanks, Eric. Good point that i should check out whether the power conditioner is also a surge protector. I want both.

David

Given the quality of the rest of your system, I would recommend as high a level as possible. Shunyata good choice. Definitely audition. But a good power conditioner will improve the sound yof all your components other than the amp (directly into outlet). There are isolated reports of a power conditioner not making a difference... very uncommon. Also, consider it a component you may never upgrade as you upgrade the rest of your system. I bought my 75lb power conditioner over twenty five years ago. It remains a core component... and when I have made comparisons... it is still of great comparative value. I’d audition an Everest. You'd never have to think about it again. 

Defense in depth: Absolutely begin with a whole house surgeprotector. It is the cheapest insurance known for everything electric in your home, especially if you lie in thunderstorm prone areas. If you have sub-panels, but one in their as well. Next is your point-of-use devices. Whether you decide to go with a simple quality suege protector, more elaborate power conditioner, or all the way to a battery power generator is up to you and your circumstances.

I would also check out Ting - www.tingfire.com - an electrical arc fault detector. State Farm just sent me one for free. Apparently they can detect 80% of all electrical fires before ignition. I get a monthly email report showing voltage fluctuations, outages, brown outs, and voltage spikes, which is kinda fascinating in a nerdy quasi-paranoid way. But the reassuring note that no faults were found does deliver some peace of mind. They're $99 with a year of monitoring, and include a pretty cool app, if your insurance company won't freebie one.