AudioQuest PowerQuest 2 Mains Filter (Schuko)

The AudioQuest PowerQuest 2 is a mains filter with six Schuko outlets that supplies hi-fi and home theater devices with filtered power while protecting them non-destructively against voltage spikes at the same time.

It's the most affordable way into AudioQuest's power world — and still no relabeled hardware-store item. The filtering principles come straight from the Niagara series, just on a smaller scale.

Why the PowerQuest 2?

An ordinary power strip just distributes electricity. The PowerQuest 2 distributes it and cleans up first: push-pull noise dissipation attenuates more than 22 dB from 30 kHz to 1 GHz — exactly where switch-mode power supplies, Wi-Fi routers, and dimmers dump their dirt. The six outlets are sorted by task: one is optimized for 4K and 8K video devices, two deliver high current for amplifiers or subwoofers, three are linearly filtered for source components. Plus a total capacity of 16 amps at 230 volts.

What you get

A flat metal strip just under 40 centimeters long with a removable stand — it can lie flat, stand upright, or hang on the wall. Two fast USB charging ports with a combined 3.4 amps save you a wall charger. A direction-optimized AudioQuest power cable, 2.1 meters long, is included. The surge protection works non-destructively and doesn't need replacing after an event.

Who is the PowerQuest 2 for — and who isn't it for?

Honestly: if you're running two hefty power amps and half a rack full of sources, you're better served by the PowerQuest 303 or a Niagara — six outlets fill up faster than you'd think. For compact stereo setups, a TV with a soundbar, or a modest home theater, the PQ 2 is sized just right.

Our verdict

The PowerQuest 2 is the kind of purchase you only learn to appreciate once a storm rolls in over the lake. Until then, it quietly works against the noise floor you'd previously taken for normal. Whether six outlets are enough, or you need a size up, we'll quickly work through it with you: HD Zürisee in Wädenswil, 044 680 22 00, WhatsApp 076 534 22 00 (text only, no calls), or shop@hdzuerisee.ch.

Technical data

• Device type: mains filter / power conditioner with surge protection, Schuko version (EU)
• AC outlets: 6 (1× 4K/8K video optimized, 2× high-current, 3× linearly filtered)
• Noise suppression: push-pull, over 22 dB (30 kHz–1 GHz)
• Surge protection: destruction-free, 6000 V / 3000 A; extreme-voltage shutoff at 270 VAC
• Max. input current: 16 A RMS at 220–240 V
• USB charging ports: 2×, 3.4 A combined
• Mounting: removable stand, holes for wall mounting
• Dimensions (W×H×D): 39.3 × 8.0 × 15.3 cm
• Weight: 2.2 kg
• Included: PowerQuest 2, AudioQuest power cable (2.1 m), stand, user manual

Frequently asked questions

What does the video-optimized outlet do?

It filters exactly the interference that shows up on TVs and projectors as picture noise, color noise, or washed-out contrast. Plug your display device in there instead of anywhere else, and the filtering is tuned to its power supply. For audio devices, you're better off using the linearly filtered outlets.

Can I connect my amplifier to the PowerQuest 2?

Yes, that's exactly what the two high-current outlets are for. They aren't throttled and give the amplifier the current it draws on impulse. Overall, the strip can be loaded with up to 16 amps — comfortably enough for a typical living-room system.

What does destruction-free surge protection mean?

Cheap strips use sacrificial components that give up at the first serious spike — often without you noticing. The PowerQuest 2 withstands repeated tests at 6000 volts or 3000 amps and stays functional afterward. Under extreme mains voltage, it also disconnects itself automatically.

Why order the PowerQuest 2 from HD Zürisee?

Because we'll tell you when the smallest model is enough — and just as readily when it isn't. We'll go through with you what's going on the strip, which outlet belongs to which device, and whether a better power cable would bring more. You get advice and a workshop from one and the same place with us.

Pairs well with

A better cable to the wall makes a difference here too: Power cables. Larger models are in Mains Filters & Power Conditioning, and everything around grounding and power pathways is under Power Optimization.