Isolation transformer

[BilliumB]

I understand that recording studios often use an isolation transformer for the main feed, and also make use of balanced transformer(s) in some situations. Are Faraday shields normally included in balanced transformer designs?

Cheers. Bill

[Dr Bunsen Honeydew]

No they aren't. It is interesting, they are both very similar and do similar things, but both do different things as well. An isolation transformer is mostly about safety, and I get shocks on a fairly regular basis, well a couple of times a year. Interestingly you cannot combine them completely in one transformer and get both sets of benefits even though any transformer (apart from autowounds) are isolation transformers in a way.