Isolation transformer benefits?

I'm a believer in the Xentek Extreme isolation transformer and know it has its place in a sound system given a normal residential area, and set up. Nerspellsner states he has a dedicated street transformer that feeds his home only. Given that information, the time and cost in the purchase and instillation of an Xentek Extreme isolation transformer (depending on the manner it's installed) might not be worth the effort. In my opinion (having experimented with a similar set up a year ago at a friend's home) the benefits could be a marginal in this case.

hi je48, without discussing issues of semantics, components which interface other components and a wall outlet probably exhibit sonic differences.

as with any other component, it is advisable to audition such a device, if possible prior to purchase.

i am not concerned with the issue of shielding or whether a product is or is not a power conditioner.

in either case, one may use the generic term accessory and still hope to audition before purchase.

Get a medical grade Xentek Extreme.

Mrtennis posts;

since all isolation transformers are not created equal, you may have to listen to several before finding one you want.

Mrtennis, are you speaking of a stand alone isolation transformer with electrostatic shielding verses non shielded? Or are you speaking of power conditioners that are using components in conjunction with an isolation transformer? Power conditioners and stand alone iso transformers are not the same thing imo.
Jim

Mrtennis
Thank you for your contribution.

Lak has disappointed me with his answer.

Ooh, you're lucky to have that street transformer all to yourself. I share mine with a lot of other houses--maybe too many. The line and the tranny hum like the dickens in winter when everyone's heating. My iso transformers make a big difference.

Your AC setup looks pretty good. I agree with Lak that decent AC outlets are worth having.

I don't think you would hear an improvement, or at least it wouldn't be worth the investment of the isolation transformer. I'd hold as is and enjoy the music. I assume you are using some high end AC outlets?

It will reduce noise. The closer to the components that it can be located, the better.

as with any audio gear, if you have an opportunity to audition before you buy, it is worth listening to an isolation transformer.

since all isolation transformers are not created equal, you may have to listen to several before finding one you want.