Icaillo,
Having lost my Denon AVR 3802 to a lightening strike, I was forced into researching this particular topic. I have no in-depth knowledge of individual electrical components so was forced to rely on manufacturers specs and reviews where they exist. Surge protectors don't seem to attract many reviews, but when a product claims an element of filtering/noise suppression as well, then the AV world is suddenly all over it like a rash.
On this basis and knowing that I wanted something with a decent current capacity (Receiver, Phono stage, turntable, TV, DVD, Satellite and large sub) I settled on the
Monster HTS 1000. Now it's not as cheap as the HT1010SAT3 but then a) you can't get that over here and b) I thought it good VALUE, which is subjective. It's build is certainly a cut above and it certainly gives me confidence however unfounded that may be. What swung it for me, aside from the build quality, is it has a properly shielded mains lead, signal lead protection and the grouping of certain components to optimise filtering seemed to be favourably reported on and sensible in theory.
As to some of the sound and picture improvements claimed and reported, I think they may be slightly overstated. Although, if push came to shove, I would say the my system is slightly less prone to sibilance now. But no more so than the difference you get by listening late at night when the mains are cleaner anyway.
It appears to use more than just MOVs, but as to what, I'll let you decide. It doesn't satisfy your criteria on price, I know, but with your obvious knowledge on the subject, I'd be interested to hear your opinions.
Russell