Rechargeable/NiMH batteries in mics

[henrytj]

I have read accounts of productions using 100 or more batteries in a production. The conservationist in me likes to use rechargeable batteries (usually NiMH) when I can. But, it is a mistake to use the lower 1.2v rechargeable batteries in something like a shotgun microphone?

Henry

 

[Steve House]

The batteries in self-powered mics last so long anyway it hardly makes sense. For heavier duty use, like wireless, field mixers, etc, going with rechargeables makes more sense and is quite common. Not usually the cheap consumer stuff though. NP-1's to power an ENG/EFP audio bag run several hundred dollars apiece.

 

[Alex H.]

I stumbled on this a few weeks ago... was thinking about making the investment.

http://www.wirelessmic.biz/

They claim that, even at 1.2V, their batteries will fully work in wireless systems. Anyone have any experience with them?

Mostly, I thought this might help my parish. We go through AAs like crazy, just for Sunday services. I have been using rechargable e-squared batteries in my Sennheisers (my audio kit) without problems, but wouldn't put them in an install system.

 

[Sumfun]

I use Energizer NiMH rechargeable batteries in my Sennheiser G2 wireless systems, and they work just fine, even though they are only 1.2V. They last about 4-5 hours per charge. I got mine at Target, but I'm sure they're available in many stores.

 

[AwakenedFilms]

I use rechargeables in my wireless gear. Be aware that rechargeables do not have the same discharge curve that alkalines have. NiMH's are especially notorious for just dropping voltage and audio gear does not like that. I have found that I change them much more frequently and at times during a long or important interview, opt for alkalines.


J

 

[Alex H.]

I have found that I change them much more frequently and at times during a long or important interview, opt for alkalines.

For non-rechargeable batteries in wireless, I really like the Energizer E2 Lithium. They last a long, long time.

 

[DCSensui]

I started using NiMh batteries from Thomas Distributors. These particular ones have a longer shelf life and good capacity. I've used them for six hours or so in my ATW-1800 system. Alkalines do about the same.

http://thomasdistributing.com/shop/...ml?SP_id=68&osCsid=r8g9emi5uf2n1ppgg5vd1kt8g4

The only drawback: be careful about not losing them.

I would also recommend a good charger. This particular one will charge and balance individual cells. Most chargers work batteries in pairs and if the pair isn't matched the battery could over-charge or under-charge. This charger can slow-charge, fast-charge and recondition batteries.

http://thomasdistributing.com/shop/...html?SP_id=&osCsid=r8g9emi5uf2n1ppgg5vd1kt8g4

 

[Hxd Ped]

I avoid using batteries at all in mics that require phantom. The reduced voltage can significantly reduce sound quality, depending on the mic. Sometimes you don't have a choice; then I use new alkaline. And you should never keep a battery in a mic unless you're using it. Some mics drain the battery even if you're not using them.

For me it depends on how much money is on the line. If I'm making my own SFX recordings, alone, on my own time, I use rechargeables in my recorder. If they all go dead, or I forget to bring more, I've only screwed my self. If I'm recording something for a production where someone else’s money is on the line, I ONLY use new alkaline and bring three extra sets. I will not have something like batteries ruin someone's production if I can prevent it.

On a side note, according to Energizer, you should use slow chargers to maximize the overall battery life. According to them, fast chargers can significantly reduce the number of recharges you get out of a battery.