Adding a Direct Out to a Flipster

[Wounded Paw]

Yes I have used the search function.
When adding a direct out to a stompbox, a Flipster in this case, I don't have to worry about phantom power because the box is already powered. Do I just split the signal right before the output jack, add a buffer and transformer and send it to an XLR out?  Will switching the Flipster in and out of the circuit adversely affect the DI out? 
I've looked at schematics from Craig Anderton and from DIYfactory.com to name a few and some things don't seem to agree.  Do I need to send an inverted signal to one pin of the xlr or not?  It seems that you only need to do that when not using the transformer, correct?
Are there cheaper quality transformers other than Jensen?  Is it possible to go transformerless?

[Wounded Paw]

anyone used Hammond transformers?
http://www.hammondmfg.com/5caud.htm