The cheapest UPS that does true sine wave output and AVR I could find was $120. So, I suppose at least in that case you might be able to solve this problem more cheaply. That said, I prefer the power conditioner because it's designed to stack with my gear and has an aesthetic that I desire while still achieving the objective. http://www.amazon.com/Tripp-Lite-BC600SINE-Battery-Outlets/dp/B004SBC2S0