Is it necessary to have a power center (not just a surge protector) for a home theater setup. My current setup consists of an Onkyo NR 807 reciever, Athena AS speakers, and Samsung 52LN750 TV, Xbox 360 and BR. If so, what do you recommend for this level setup?
I look at power conditioners / surge protectors a little like cables. You don't have to spend a fortune to get good results. Lightning strikes are a bigger problem for you equipment than life's everyday little electrical sputters. So get a good surge protector(<$100) for simplifying plug in and guard against a bigger problem.
When I first bought my Hitachi Plasma it emitted an annoying buzzing/humming sound that was noticeable while watching TV from 15 feet away. Once I plugged it into my Monster power conditioner, the buzzing stopped, so it's useful in that regard.