Mitchell Electronics provides the two essential types of audio transformers: Step-up/Step-down transformers and Unity 1:1 transformers. While Step-up/Step-down audio transformers are used for signal level and impedance compatibility or matching, Unity 1:1 audio transformers are used for DC blocking, Radio Frequency Interference blocking and ground lift and device isolation.
The main difference between these audio transformers is that Step-up/Step-down transformers have a different number of windings and Unity 1:1 transformers, often called isolation transformers, have the same number of windings on each coil. A different number of windings causes different impedances which allows the signal level to change as it passes through the audio transformer. The same number of windings on each coil keeps the signal level the same and allows it to pass unmodified while blocking DC voltage and radio frequency interference. Unity audio transformers also reduce hum problems by keeping the primary and secondary insulated from each other and isolating the grounds of different devices.
Other applications of Unity 1:1 transformers include providing multiple outputs from a single output by using multiple secondary windings and changing unbalanced signals to balanced signals or vice-versa.
A well-made audio transformer will provide a flatter and broader frequency response and take a hotter input signal without becoming saturated. They also have multiple shields, which keep unwanted signals like hum pickup and power supply interference out and desired signals in. An inexpensive audio transformer typically has no such shielding. Mitchell Electronics provides only quality, well-made audio transformers that perform according to high industry standards.
