Best UPS/power conditioner for AV use?

[Tarrant69]

I'm looking to protect my AV gear - basically a LCD HDTV, HTPC, receiver, subwoofer. What do you think are the merits of each of these options:

1. SMT1500RM2U or SMX1500RM2U
3. SUA1500RMI2U or SURTA1500RMXL2U

Obviously noise from the unit (transformer switching, fan, etc) is a consideration, quiet is needed. And how do those stack up to something like the APC S15 which is supposedly designed for AV use?

I know that the Smart-UPS line from APC is geared for servers/computers, but they do output true sine-wave, offer line conditioning, and boost/trim for under/over voltages. Aside from that, any advantages of a unit marketed for AV use versus server use?

 

[Mike82ARP]

I've tried quite a few over the years. My advice would be to first, have a dedicated circuit installed. It will cost~$250.00 and will do more to isolate against power line noise that would normally occur from having other things on the same circuit (i.e., cordless phones, clocks, lamps with CFL, etc) in a conventional wiring scheme.

Second, try to determine what power mains problems you have in your area. It may be voltage sag, voltage transients, or noise. Then you can look for a PLC that addresses those issues. If these aren't an issue, them something like a Brickwall, ZeroSurge (what I use as I had the dedicated line installed and minimal noise issues) or APC surge arrestor should be sufficient.

Third, make sure you can demo before you buy.

If you have bucks to burn, a balanced power supply (Equitech, BPT) are quite good.

If you have muy expensivo components then I would also recommend the offerings from Running Springs Audio.

Hope this helps.