Batteries

Batteries

Alkaline Batteries

I won't use alkaline batteries in my equipment except in the case of an urgent emergency. NI-MH rechargeable batteries are much longer lasting and cost about the same initially. Rechargeable batteries, as they can be used over and over are more sustainable than alkaline batteries also.

Rechargable Batteries

My preferred AA batteries of choice are the rechargeable LADDA brand 2450 mAh IKEA brand. They are reasonable in cost and outlast standard alkaline batteries, powering any of my recorders two to three times longer than commercially available alkalines. As mentioned above, I avoid alkaline batteries unless I have no other choice as they just don't near the level of quality performance of rechargeable NI-MH batteries such as the LADDA (my favorites).

In addition to LADDA rechargable batteries, Panasonic's Eneloop AA rechargeable batteries are also popular with field recordists. You will find a link to the Eneloop batteries below the LADDA links.

You shouldn't be disappointed with LADDA 2450 AA battery performance. I am totally satisfied with the long recording sessions in harsh environments I get with the LADDA batteries. I've also found these batteries are less expensive when purchased directly from IKEA as compared to those resold on Amazon. Here are links to both suppliers:

LADDA Rechargeable battery, HR06 AA 1.2V, 2450mAh - IKEALADDA Rechargeable battery, HR06 AA 1.2V, 2450mAh You reduce costs and waste by switching to rechargeable batteries, especially if you are a frequent user of traditional alkaline ones. In addition, you will always have working batteries when needed! The battery is ready to use.

Recharging Units

Importantly, the key to optimized NI-MH battery performance is a good battery charger. There are many inexpensive chargers available today and most will not provide the charge level needed for a recorder to complete a 24 hour or more recording session in the wind, rain, heat and salt spray here along the Gulf Coast. Partial charging can also greatly decrease battery life.

BONAI LCD Smart Battery Charger

I've had good service from the BONAI LCD Smart Battery Charger I purchased from Amazon. The BONAI quickly and fully charges my LADDA batteries, four at a time and has an automatic cutoff switch. The charger also has LCD charge indicators for each battery. There are two of these chargers in my office and I keep a good number of LADDA AAs charged for my recorders, our security system modules, household remote controllers and other electronic items. I give the BONAI charge a hearty thumbs up for professional performance at a reasonable price.

Finally, I recently found a handy device to store AA batteries and retrieve them with ease when needed. The Storacell Battery Caddy is an affordable and durable way to keep those AA batteries easily accessible and ready to use avoiding the jumble mess of batteries rolling around in the bottom of a pack.

STORACELL 12 AA Pack Battery Caddy (Orange)Buy STORACELL 12 AA Pack Battery Caddy (Orange) featuring Holds 12 AA Batteries, One-Handed Dispensing, Caddy Protects Both Terminals. Review STORACELL null

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