They should have put load resistors on both sides then.
I think they should have loaded the transformer on the output side only so on the XLR in one converter and on the RCA on the second one.
That, however, would mean the input would always be loaded with that same resistance. As it is now a 10k load would be 'seen' as a 10k load on the input as well.
The 47k will do nothing really and could have been left out. It is in the XLR-> RCA case anyway.
I would not call the design mindless. It is just impossible to properly design for a completely unknown environment.
Yes, impossible to account for all purposes it can be used in.
Why is the need for a snubber dependent on level?
It isn't. With proper levels I meant the levels it is supposed to be used with.
Agree, there is no simple universal fix without downsides. This is what I wanted to point out. Proper application of such transformers is complicated.
Yes, but as simple as it is (and limited in usage) it can do the job it is supposed to do. It will add some distortion, will be limited in lowest frequency and highest frequency and might be peaking above 20kHz when not properly loaded but at least you have galvanic separation, balanced signal and good enough performance for most professional cases when it is needed as a problem solver.
Hifi people should look elsewhere ... but will have to pay a lot more.