That monster surge protector is worth every penny. it is a real surge prtector, not just a multiport extension cord with a fuse. The 6125-joule rating makes it take one hell of a spike to damage anything plugged into it. If you have expensive gear it is worth it to protect it. If you have a $300 walmart tv and $100 stereo, then a $200 surge device is certainly not needed, but for a several thousand dollar tv and a home theater system upwards of 10 grand, that extra piece of mind is worth the $200.