using a transformer to separate your gear power

Jc, how did you arrive at the ratio that you posted ? As to being "overkill", i like that : ) Sean
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JC is right to a large degree. With most transformers the inductive process (which is how the transformer works) also works against it. It can, if not designed properly, limit the current flow. This is a big deal in x-ray devices as they require HUGE amounts of current flow on demand, and they are always pushed right at their limit. If it's a 6.5 KVA unit, you can bet the demands are at least 6 KVA. Many of the transformers that we find in some products are off the shelf transformers that really don't serve audio very well--particularly amplifiers, which is why so many amplifiers sound better not connected through an isolation transformer (power conditioner).

As to a 20:1 ratio--I don't know about that, but I would definitely agree with an abosulte minimum of 5:1 for amplifiers unless it was really designed to deliver the current on demand.

The 20:1 ratio was the number used by the company that manufactures the ISO isolation device in order to prevent transformer saturation. This of course had a large margin of safety in it.

I find these comments about balanced power systems as being possibly banned in the u.s. and dangerous utterly irresponsible. To have them come from apparantly audio professionals who sell competing products is disgusting. It is one thing for unknowlegeable end users to spout off about something and another, but for someone in the business with access to a wealth of information to throw out this trash is disgusting.
I am not in the business, and recently built a new dedicated theater as well as secondary audio video areas in my home. After reading the highly informative series in Widescreen Review regarding the construction of its audio video testing room I looked into equi-tech for my system. WR used this supposedly dangerous about to be banned Equipment in their system and who would think they know anything? I don't accept as gospel what I read in these various magazines keeping in mind they get advertising money, but anyone on these threads can go to their web site and read for themselves.
The equi-tech stuff is used in recording studios throughout the country and the results in my system has been fantastic. I purchased a wall panel which provides power to my media room,a living room a/v system, and my whole house distributed products. The bang for the buck is enormous. No surge protection required and no other devices such as Richard Gray. I tried the gray product and it was bad for the audio and added nothing to the video. WR like the gray equip for some applications. Sound and video are noticeably better. I had a plasma tv which was like a new piece of equip. when plugged into the equi-tech. Startling detail,color, and depth.
Anyone can like or not like this or other equipment, but to proliferate bull about a product that is UL approved and covered by the National Electrical Code is unacceptable.