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Recording audio in the field requires reliable power solutions to prevent any mishaps from occurring mid-take. This is especially true for Sound Devices Mix Pre, a popular portable recording device that’s renowned for its high-quality sound. But how do you choose the right power options for your Mix Pre, given the plethora of choices available?
In this article, we’ll delve into some of the power options Sound Devices Mix Pre 6II that I use and tried out in the past.
Regardless of whether you’re an audio professional or an aspiring sound recordist, selecting the appropriate power solution is critical to ensure that you capture top-notch sound every time, without worrying about battery life.
It’s important to note that power durations vary between the Sound Devices Mix Pre 6ii and other devices like the Zoom F6, with the latter requiring significantly less power to operate for extended periods. I covered this in our previous article about the best power solutions for the Zoom F6.
However, the choice of gear, the environment you’re in and the number of channels you’re using plays a role in determining the duration of your power supply. With that in mind, let’s examine some of the top power options for your Sound Devices Mix Pre.
If you’ve watched several of our videos, you may have noticed me using the Schoeps DMS kit for sound recording. To be honest, I exclusively use this kit with my Sound Devices. While I do use other microphones on occasion, my go-to for ambient recordings is the Schoeps with Sound Devices. And to keep this set running for a long time, I rely on the Anker 747 with 26000 mAhv.
You may want to compare the price on Best Buy’s website before making a purchase. Prices can vary by region and time, so it’s always a good idea to shop around and compare. It’s unfortunate that the price has gone up, but it’s always worth doing some research to find the best deal.
Why Anker, you ask? It’s simple. I use the Mix Pre primarily for the DMS kit, which requires three channels to function continuously. AA batteries just won’t cut it in this scenario. The Mix Pre requires a substantial amount of power to operate efficiently, and we must ensure that it’s adequately fueled.
To be honest, I don’t like using AA batteries at all when using my Mix Pre. I often find myself recording for hours on end, and the last thing I need is to be stressing myself over a diminishing green battery level.
However, if you’re only using mono/stereo or recording with gear that doesn’t require phantom power, then using AA batteries may be a viable option for you.
In that case, I would recommend looking into the IKEA Ladda batteries or the Panasonic Eneloop. These batteries have a good reputation among field recordists and are known for their reliable performance.
The Sound Devices MX-LMount Battery Sled is designed for use with the Sound Devices MixPre audio recorders. It allows users to power their recorders with L-Mount batteries, which are commonly used in the film and broadcast industry.
The MX-LMount Battery Sled is a versatile option that can accept one or two L-Mount batteries and display battery life and charging status. However, before investing over $100 in a plastic accessory, it’s worth considering other power options that might better fit your needs and budget.
Some users have found success using the Power Extra batteries in combination with the L Mount System for additional power options. When choosing this power option, it’s important to consider how many batteries you would like to use and what bag you’re using for the Mix Pre.
While there may be other power options available for the Sound Devices MixPre, I only recommend those that I have personally used and found to be reliable and convenient for on-the-go recording.
These options allow for carefree mobility without having to carry too much extra weight, cables, or gear. So, whether you choose an external battery like the Anker Power Bank or the MX-LMount Battery Sled, be sure to consider your needs and environment to select the best power option for you.
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Hi there we’re Marcel and Libby and every sound on this site has been recorded by us. For nearly 7 years, we’ve been traveling around the world recording unique sounds for others to use!
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