People don’t understand its no longer 1960.

1) Mains frequency transformers are pretty much an obsolete technology. I bet you’d have to search your home to find a transformer today that works at 60 Hz due to the large core size required for a relatively small power transfer.

2) Even alternating current motors that operate at mains frequency are becoming obsolete. It’s more efficient to drive an alternating current motor using switched DC power at a precisely controlled frequency by a micro controller.

3) Stepping up and down DC voltage with a buck or boost converter is quite simple with modern electronics, although safety dictates using a switch mode power supply with a high frequency transformer in it to provide electrical isolation from the mains.