Quote Originally Posted by chicoaudio
I am setting up my surround system for the first time and I am currently using two "cheap" surge protectors for all of the equipment. I have noticed for anywhere between $50-200 (and up) I can get an official audio surge protector, and some come with noise filters. Are these worth the money or are they a ploy to take the consumers money and not provide a noticable difference?

I have been into high end electronics for a very long time and I can tell you that they are worth it - to a point. Fact: AC voltage does fluctuate in a home and cause video distortions and sound problems due to the power regulators in the components not getting a "healthy" dose of 120 volts. Fact: home A/C power is "dirty" due to the nature of power transmitters and repeaters used by the electric company. The deal is any type of protection is better than none, but delicate A/V components need "better than average" protection. Monster Cable has a complete line of conditioners and power filters for A/V. They are a sound investment. Many people do not believe in power conditioners, and more than a few like to bash Monster Cable. But the point is if you spend thousands of dollars in electronics, why would you protect it with a $15.00 protector from Wallmart? I've owned Monster products since day one, I believe in them, I believe it's a worthy investment.