What happen??

Had a power surge that shut down 1300 homes, so I unplugged the amp, CD and Noise Harvesters. When power came up I plugged all back in but... the ARC CD 3 Mk 2 didn't come to life not even after using the front panel buttons, changing the PC and retrying for 5-7 mins. After 45 mins. my wife tried plugging something in to check that socket and it worked so, she tried the front panel buttons on the CD with no results, she continued by pressing 1 button at a time and then the Stand By. the 2nd button she pushed the display flashed. So she hit the Stand By and the CD came to life! She called me and I tried making sure by powering down and hit the Stand By and my beloved ARC was alive!! Tried a CD and all seems well now, But, can anyone help me as to what may have happen??? The Unit has ALWAYS comes to life when plugged in, NOT almost an hour later, can someone help?

And now should I have to get a surge protector of some sort? AND IF SO what would be best recommended on a very tight budget?