Isolation transformer - does it offer protection

Depends on the frequency response characterisitcs of the transformer and its construction.

For mid frequency transients, it may work very well. But some solation transformers capacitively couple very high frequency spikes from input to output without significant attenuation. So you cannot use them by themselves without additional surge protection.

I prefer using a good transient surge protection like Furman's products better than an isolation transformer.

07-20-11: Dhl93449
...But some solation transformers capacitively couple very high frequency spikes from input to output without significant attenuation. So you cannot use them by themselves without additional surge protection.

I was not aware of this, thanks for the tip.

Seek some thorough advice. http://http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Surge_protector

My house was once hit by lightening a mere 6 feet from my on stereo. The system was plugged into a Sound Application unit. While most of the electronic on one side of my house was fried, neither the SA or my system were harmed.

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your link doesn't work.. too many http://

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Surge_protector

Perhaps the SA wasn't harmed...

Many surge protectors have components that absorb the spike but by design they get fried in the process. It is possible that your unit protected your stereo but can't do it again.

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Herman, I just clicked on it and got right to the surge section.