AudioQuest PowerQuest 3 8-Outlet Power Conditioner & Non-Sacrificial Surge Protector User Manual

1. Product Overview

The AudioQuest PowerQuest 3 is an advanced 8-outlet power conditioner and non-sacrificial surge protector designed to enhance the performance and longevity of your audio/video equipment. It provides comprehensive protection against power surges and spikes, filters out electrical noise, and ensures a stable power supply for optimal device operation.

This unit is engineered to provide clean, uncompressed AC power, which can significantly improve the clarity and detail of your audio and video systems. It incorporates technologies previously found in AudioQuest's Niagara series, making high-performance power conditioning accessible.

Figure 1: Front view of the AudioQuest PowerQuest 3, showcasing its 8 outlets and sleek design.

2. Key Features

• 8 AC Outlets: Provides ample connectivity for multiple devices.
• Non-Sacrificial Surge Protection: Unlike traditional surge protectors that sacrifice themselves after a major surge, the PowerQuest 3 is designed to withstand multiple surges without degradation, offering continuous protection.
• Extreme Voltage Shutdown: Automatically shuts down power to connected devices within a quarter of a second if input voltage exceeds 140V, preventing damage from severe overvoltage events.
• Ultra-Linear Noise-Dissipation Technology: Reduces electrical noise by over 22dB, resulting in a cleaner audio and video signal.
• 2 x 4K/8K Video Optimized Ultra-Linear Filter Outlets: Specifically designed to provide clean power to video devices, ensuring optimal picture quality for 4K and 8K displays.
• 2 x High-Current Outlets: Tailored for high-power devices such as amplifiers, receivers, and powered subwoofers, delivering stable current without compression.
• 4 x Ultra-Linear Filter Outlets: Ideal for source components like cable boxes, streaming devices, game consoles, and CD/Blu-ray players.
• NRG-Grade 7-Foot AC Power Cable: A high-quality power cable is included to ensure efficient power delivery.
• Signal Line Protection: Includes coaxial (IN/OUT), network (IN/OUT), and telephone/DSL (IN/OUT) protection to safeguard connected signal lines from surges.
• 4 x High-Speed USB Charging Ports: Conveniently located USB ports for charging mobile devices.
• Flexible Placement Options: Can be placed on its supplied stand, wall-mounted using integrated keyhole slots, or laid flat in an equipment rack.
• $1,000,000 Connected Equipment Protection Warranty: Provides peace of mind for connected devices.

Video 1: An overview of the AudioQuest PowerQuest series, detailing its features and benefits. This video is provided by World Wide Stereo, an authorized AudioQuest seller.

3. Setup

1. Placement: Choose a suitable location for your PowerQuest 3. It can be placed on its included stand, wall-mounted using the keyhole slots on the back, or laid flat in an equipment rack. Ensure adequate ventilation around the unit.
2. Connect Power: Plug the supplied NRG-grade 7-foot AC power cable into the PowerQuest 3 and then into a wall outlet.
3. Connect Devices: Carefully connect your audio/video components to the appropriate outlets on the PowerQuest 3:
   • High-Current Outlets (labeled 'High-Current'): Use for power amplifiers, receivers, and powered subwoofers.
   • 4K/8K Video Optimized Outlets (labeled '4K/8K Video Optimized'): Use for televisions, projectors, and other video display devices.
   • Ultra-Linear Filter Outlets: Use for source components such as cable boxes, streaming devices, game consoles, CD players, Blu-ray players, and turntables.
4. Connect Signal Lines (PowerQuest 3 only): If desired, connect your coaxial, network (Ethernet), and telephone/DSL lines through the corresponding IN/OUT ports on the side of the PowerQuest 3 for additional signal protection.
5. Power On: Flip the main power switch on the side of the unit to the 'ON' position. The 'Protection On' indicator light should illuminate, confirming active surge protection.

Figure 2: Rear view of the PowerQuest 3, showing the signal protection ports (coaxial, network, telephone/DSL) and the main power switch.

4. Operating Instructions

The AudioQuest PowerQuest 3 operates automatically once connected and powered on. It continuously monitors incoming AC power and provides filtration and surge protection to all connected devices.

• Power On/Off: Use the main power switch on the side of the unit to turn the PowerQuest 3 on or off.
• Indicator Lights:
  • 'Protection On' (Green LED): Indicates that the non-sacrificial surge protection is active and functioning correctly.
  • 'Overvoltage Protection' (Red LED): Illuminates if the Extreme Voltage Shutdown circuit has been activated due to an overvoltage event. The unit will automatically shut down power to protect connected equipment.

Figure 3: Angled view of the PowerQuest 3, highlighting the 'Overvoltage Protection' and 'Protection On' indicator lights.

5. Maintenance

The AudioQuest PowerQuest 3 requires minimal maintenance due to its robust design and non-sacrificial protection circuits.

• Cleaning: Periodically wipe the unit with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust. Do not use liquid cleaners or solvents.
• Ventilation: Ensure that the unit has adequate airflow around it to prevent overheating. Do not block any ventilation openings.
• Surge Protection Status: Regularly check the 'Protection On' indicator light. If it is not illuminated, the surge protection is not active, and the unit may require inspection or service.
• Resetting After Overvoltage: If the 'Overvoltage Protection' light is on, indicating a shutdown, unplug the PowerQuest 3 from the wall outlet, wait a few moments, and then plug it back in. This should reset the unit. If the issue persists, consult the troubleshooting section or contact support.

6. Troubleshooting

• No Power to Connected Devices:
  • Ensure the PowerQuest 3 is plugged into a live wall outlet.
  • Check that the main power switch on the PowerQuest 3 is in the 'ON' position.
  • Verify that the 'Protection On' light is illuminated. If not, the unit may not be functioning correctly.
  • If the 'Overvoltage Protection' light is on, the unit has shut down. Unplug the PowerQuest 3 from the wall, wait, and plug it back in to reset.
  • Check the circuit breaker in your home's electrical panel.
• Poor Audio/Video Quality:
  • Ensure devices are plugged into the correct type of outlet (e.g., video devices into '4K/8K Video Optimized' outlets, amplifiers into 'High-Current' outlets).
  • Verify that all cables are securely connected.
  • Confirm that the 'Protection On' light is illuminated, indicating active noise filtration.
• 'Protection On' Light Not Illuminated:
  • This indicates that the surge protection is not active. Unplug the unit and plug it back in. If the light remains off, the unit may be damaged or require service. Contact AudioQuest support.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty & Support

The AudioQuest PowerQuest 3 comes with a robust warranty to protect your investment:

• Connected Equipment Protection Warranty: AudioQuest offers a $1,000,000 warranty for equipment properly connected to the PowerQuest 3, providing coverage against damage from power surges. Refer to the official AudioQuest warranty documentation for full terms and conditions.
• Product Warranty: The PowerQuest 3 itself is covered by AudioQuest's standard product warranty. Please consult the official AudioQuest website or your retailer for specific warranty periods and details.

For technical support, warranty claims, or further assistance, please contact AudioQuest customer service or visit their official website.