Rechargable or Standard Batteries

[DJ J Mac]

This was inspired by Mike's thread about the mics and the battery discussion that followed and since I didn't want to hijack a thread...I started this one.

Do you use rechargable or standard batteries in your battery powered gear? Either way, what brands and what have been you experiences with them? For those who use standard batteries, what do you do with them once you're done with them (be it one event or until the battery dies)?


We've been using Duracell's for quite some time, but are thinking about making the switch to rechargable batteries next year to reduce the cost of batteries and to reduce the waste.

 

[DJCC]

I use ray-o-vac rechargables. I have two pair for each mic (8 total) and for my keyboard & mouse that are fully charged for every event. I have never had any problems with them as of yet.

I made the move to rechargeables because I was tired of spending $25+ a month in batteries. Keep in mind that my mics are used for karaoke also.

 

[DJ Piddipat]

i use eneloop rechargeable batteries. i used to order batteries that are sold in bulk for the medical profession, but the rechargeables are so much better.

 

[B-Sharp]

Standard store-brand batteries from BJ's Wholesale Club (similar to Costco/Sam's Club) I use fresh batteries at every event. Unless they're dead, the used ones come home with me and eventually get used in clocks, remotes, and anything else around the house that needs a AA-sized battery.

 

[ittigger]

Store bought Duracell. Good for 2 events .. then throw away.

 

[steve149]

For longer events, I use Duracell ProCell batteries (mostly AA). Otherwise I use Costco brand.

 

[dunlopj]

Don't forget that cheaper quality batteries tend to leak more than name brand ones.

Ever had a batter leak in anything electronic? Not a pretty sight and not easy to fix.

For me it's Duracell all the time.

 

[Randy A]

Standard here, but I only use the wireless for intros and toasts. I have a wired Shure at the booth. I probably spend about $40 a year on batteries with most needed for the camera.

 

[Patrick]

we order Duracell ProCell in bulk from Amazon, and change them in the microphone after every event.

 

[drzinc]

Energizer Ultimate Lithium. I use them in all my battery operated stuff. My mics, my DSLR, flash, and trackball. I get about a year before I have to change them.

 

[Fred Wright]

Energizer rechargables here. I can get 'em dirt cheap at the company store.

I was surprised by how long they last in the WII controllers. About the same as standard throwaways.

 

[soundinmotiondj]

Standard 9v. The wireless mic's have a reliable battery level indicator when the transmitter is on. I use a battery until it gets to the "last bar". I store mics with the batteries in a cardboard two-pack...to prevent any shorting of the battery in the case. I typically get 12-18 hours of "on" time with a battery.

I buy in bulk from my local warehouse club store, or home improvement megamart. It costs about $1-1.50 per 9v.

 

[Ron]

i use eneloop rechargeable batteries. i used to order batteries that are sold in bulk for the medical profession, but the rechargeables are so much better.

I also prefer the eneloops over the other brands.

 

[B-Sharp]

Don't forget that cheaper quality batteries tend to leak more than name brand ones.

True, but if they leak it's because they've been sitting there too long. Take your batteries out of the mic after your event and you'll never have a problem.

 

[rickryan.com]

I'm the cheapest tightwad you'll ever hope to meet but when it comes to batteries I always go overkill. With rare exception, I always put in fresh energizer batteries in every transmitter for every event. My understanding, transmitters lose range as the voltage drops on a discharging battery. I'd rather stay as far as possible away from potential drop-out issues.

 

[MIXMASTERMACHOM]

I learned not to take chances. Duracell batteries for our cordless mics. I change them every time. If you're making enough money at a gig then the cost of buying a new battery shouldn't be that big a deal.

 

[DjDennis]

Always have used Rechargeable as far back as I can remember

 

[Ausumm]

I, too, only use them for toast and prayer...so I really don't need to replace them for every gig.
I used to buy Dollar Store 9-volts all the time.
I'd get TWO for a buck, use them for one gig and chuck them.
So I always started with a fresh battery.
I have since taken the safer route and buy any name brand battery,
keep spares at all times, and replace them every few gigs.