isolation transformer


Hi, I would like to hear from fellow Audiogoners what they think whether or not the use of an isolation transformer for the front end gear (CD player/DAC/Phono) is worthwhile.
According to a well known Swiss manufacturer/distributor the use of an isolation transformer has profound effects on sonics (more detail, better bass, etc.). These effects are more pronounced when using silver wire for the transformer. Do you agree with these statements? What would be better: using a smaller transformer with silver wire (say 200VA) or a bigger one, using copper wire (1200VA)? Thx in advance for your response.
dazzdax

Showing 2 responses by beowulf

I am interested in trying an isolation transformer but I am concerned about mechanical noise. The equipment has to sit in the same room as where the listening takes place. Doesn't make sense to me to imnprove the quality of the sound in return for an annoying buzzing. I have had amps with huge transformers and no buzzing so maybe I am overly concerned. Can anyone identify make/model that did or didn't buzz?
Lak, What I am thinking of is something like the T-4 you have on the main rack for the front end. As far as I know, the new one from Exact Power is the only thing comparable being made. I looked at having a pair of large isolation transfomers installed in the basement, but the layout posed some problems and I think I scared the electrician. He couldn't figure out why anyone would want to do that. Instead I put an Exact Power EP15A in which handles one of the two amps and all the front end gear. I am looking for a second one for the second amp. I think a multi-transformer unit like the T-4 could either be plugged into one of the EP-15A's or into its own dedicated line. But its got to be QUIET. With everything I have described here I don't think I have a need for the brutes in the basement.

Maybe a pair of PS Audio UPC-200 would suffice. Those would provide 4 zones of isolation.