i've always lusted after monster cable's voltage stabilizers such as the AVS2000... but they're soooooo damn expensive. in short, they act as a battery-less UPS system that makes minor corrections in the power flowing to your components. since normal ac power can fluctuate between 80 and 140 volts, these cool little toys ensure a consistent 120V output.
a normal surge-protector can only prevent too much power from reaching a system. a few years ago the power coming into my house went really low (brownout) early in the morning, for probably about 30 minutes or so. ended up frying a ton of my equipment. yah, low power can be as painfull as high power. then you watch the lights dim as the refridgerator comes on...
so i found a good option to spending $1000+ at monsterpower: APC makes a similar product, the Line-R which, at $40, is perfect. really it'll save me money on not having to buy a large VA UPS, since i'm prefectly content putting a monitor on this, and leaving just the workstation on a UPS.
excerpt from apcc.com:
Protect your sensitive electronic equipment from brownouts and overvoltages with APC's Line-R automatic voltage regulator. Uncorrected voltage fluctuations gradually degrade the life of electronic components, potentially causing premature failure. The Line-R not only adjusts voltages to safe levels, but also provides surge protection against electrical surges and spikes - even lightning.
Features & Benefits
Protection
Automatic Voltage Regulation (AVR) Automatically steps up low voltage and steps down high voltage to levels that are suitable for your equipment.
Lightning and Surge Protection To prevent damage to your equipment from power surges and spikes.
Resettable circuit breaker Easy recovery from overloads; no need to replace a fuse.
Convenience
Status Indicator LED's Displays input voltage level (low, normal, or high).
Transformer Block Spacing Connect bulky transformer block plugs without covering up other outlets.