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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? 

128x128audio-b-dog
rfagon
43 posts
 

Power conditioners and surge protection seem to get mixed up.

Correct me if I’m wrong, but:

My understanding of effective surge protection for audio devices- not kitchen appliances- is that a surge protector has to have a CLAMPING VOLTAGE (threshold where current is interrupted) less than 200 volts.

According to the dealer who sold me an Environmental Potentials whole home surge protector, the lowest CLAMPING VOLTAGE  achieved by whole home surge protectors is around 400 volts. This may protect a fridge compressor motor but not audio electronics (or even any smart components on a fridge or stove)

….and how many power conditioners have surge protection from a voltage spike over 200 volts?

How many power conditioners or surge protectors can protect audio components from a SAG in voltage/ brownout?

deecee's avatar
deecee
108 posts
 

I lived in the lightning capitol (Orlando) of the US (over 20 years). I installed a whole house surge protector and as a cherry on top added a Brickwall surge protector (Zero Surge will also do).

If your building takes a direct strike NOTHING will protect your equipment, of course.

Good luck & Happy Listening,

DeeCee

rfagon
43 posts
 

CORRECTION: “…and how many power conditioners have surge protection from a voltage spike over  of 200 volts?”

rfagon
43 posts
 

Deecee: thanks for the suggestions! I’m planning to do the same.

audio-b-dog's avatar
audio-b-dog OP
46 posts
 

Shunyata Venom 16 Power Conditioner:  

Electromagnetic Breaker

Over-current protection is a requirement for today’s high current audio power distributors. The vast majority of manufacturers use an inexpensive thermal fuse or breaker. Both are specifically designed to heat up as the current level rises. This causes voltage drops, increased contact impedance, thermal noise, excessive heat generation and current limiting effects. There is a better solution — the hydraulic electromagnetic breaker that utilizes low-impedance relays and a sensing coil that reads the current level without heating up or limiting current. They can operate right up the to the maximum current level without heating up or limiting instantaneous current. They are rarely used in competitive products since they cost 10-20 times that of a common fuse or thermal breaker.

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