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Gear / Technical Help => Recording Gear => Topic started by: Fatah Ruark (aka MIKE B) on June 03, 2017, 05:51:50 PM

Title: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: Fatah Ruark (aka MIKE B) on June 03, 2017, 05:51:50 PM
So I did some more testing with the USB batteries with the MP6 and I have and found some interesting results. I haven't done any run times on these, but will try to today (or soon).

I purchased a Anker PowerCore 20100 to use with this. It (sort of) works. Details on what I have below (and what happens when I use it with my MP6):

1. Anker PowerCore 20100 (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00X5RV14Y/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1): Powers the unit with a FULL GREEN USB power bar. I get a very brief (1ms) flash that says USB-C Power is low warning. Also get this if I unplug one of the USB-A sides. It seems to work fine since I have the AA's in there to fail back to, but very annoying to have the warning flash every few seconds. This unit claims to output 2.4amps on each USB output. Maybe I got a bad battery. Anyone have this issue with this battery?

2. Jackery Giant+ Premium 12,000 mAh Dual (https://www.amazon.com/Jackery-Premium-Portable-External-Panasonic/dp/B00AANQLRI?th=1). Powers the unit with ORANGE USB power bar. This unit claims to output 2.1amps on 1 USB / 1A on the other USB. I wouldn't use this unless I was desperate.

3. Tecknet iEP390 (http://www.tecknetonline.com/download/User_Manual/IEP390_User_Manual.pdf). Amazingly this seems to work the best. Powers the unit with a FULL GREEN USB power bar. Unfortunately it's no longer available to buy. Capacity is 9000mAh. This unit claims to output 2.1amps on 1 USB / 1A on the other.


On paper #1 seems like it there should be no issues...and the MP6 records audio with no issues with this battery.

On paper #3 should be the worst...but it works the best. Another bonus...it's small and fits in my bag easily. 9000mAh should get me though any normal show.

I'd really like to find a USB-C battery where I can just use 1 single USB-C to USB-C cable.

I can see why SD isn't making a list of "approved" USB batteries. The #'s on these things don't seem to add up.

So...feel free to add to the list. What do you have that is working for you and what doesn't.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: johnw on June 03, 2017, 05:59:51 PM
Here's the only list with an approved USB battery
https://www.sounddevices.com/tech-notes/mixpre-3-mixpre-6-powering-options

And here's the battery
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B014ZO46LK/ref=sr_1_10?ie=UTF8&sr=1-10&tag=ianker-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399373&creativeASIN=B014ZO46LK&keywords=battery+charge&qid=1496527076&kwr_id=179

Unfortunately I believe it comes with a USB a to USB c cable so you have to buy a c>c seperately
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: jbell on June 03, 2017, 06:19:23 PM
I bought the sled for the Sony style batteries!  Also grabbed this charger with with 2 batteries. 

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Kastar-Battery-Charger-Sony-NP-F960-NP-F970-NP-F975-F950-BC-VM10-BC-VM50-BC-V615/262886954168?_trksid=p2045573.c100033.m2042&_trkparms=aid%3D111001%26algo%3DREC.SEED%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D41375%26meid%3Df03ddf8624814c4e83f41a7170cae645%26pid%3D100033%26rk%3D1%26rkt%3D3%26sd%3D262886954168
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: dactylus on June 03, 2017, 08:02:57 PM
^
Thanks for the link.

Are the sleds for the Sony style batteries shipping too?  I hope to see my MP-6 next week.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: willndmb on June 03, 2017, 09:04:14 PM
The powercore 20100 says 4.8 output and the powercore + says 6
I wonder since the plus model is approved by SD that the extra output juice is required for full functionality.
The batteries seem the same with exception to the total output power
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: johnw on June 04, 2017, 12:16:24 AM
^
Thanks for the link.

Are the sleds for the Sony style batteries shipping too?  I hope to see my MP-6 next week.

Yes, got mine earlier this week from B&H
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: johnw on June 04, 2017, 12:21:07 AM
The powercore 20100 says 4.8 output and the powercore + says 6
I wonder since the plus model is approved by SD that the extra output juice is required for full functionality.
The batteries seem the same with exception to the total output power

Actually it is 2.4 A for the 20100 and 3A for the + model. So the + model delivers 15W (5Vx3A) that the Mix Pre 3/6 seem to require.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: rippleish20 on June 04, 2017, 03:12:07 AM
My conclusion is the best route is to use a battery equipped with USB-c output and a USB-c to USB-c cable. The optional AC power supply delivers 5v @ 3Amps (15 watts), which is what the USB-c Anker battery they suggest outputs. This probably is what the unit would like to see.


I bought one of these for testing

https://www.monoprice.com/product?p_id=16240

Output 2: USB-C 5V/3A



SD says the unit need 7.5 watts 5v x 1.5 amps) - this is probably the minimum needed.

The limiting factor with using a USB-c to USB-A cable and  USB-A centric battery appears to me to be the cable. These cables must be limiting amperage to .9 - 1 amp. I was also under the impression USB batteries could output 2.1-2.4 but only some cables will actually pass this through. The dual USB-a cable gets around this by doubling the amperage. I ran tonight with both USB-a end connected to the same battery and did not get warnings and have a full green plug.

Ted found two USB-C to USB-A cables that work with his current batteries. These must pass through the full amperage.  As far as I an tell this goes against the safety precautions that should be a USB-A to USB-c cable but these cables also have downwards USB-c connectors and are very appealing fro ma cable point of view
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: rippleish20 on June 04, 2017, 03:20:40 AM
So I did some more testing with the USB batteries with the MP6 and I have and found some interesting results. I haven't done any run times on these, but will try to today (or soon).

I purchased a Anker PowerCore 20100 to use with this. It (sort of) works. Details on what I have below (and what happens when I use it with my MP6):

   
3. Tecknet iEP390 (http://www.tecknetonline.com/download/User_Manual/IEP390_User_Manual.pdf). Amazingly this seems to work the best. Powers the unit with a FULL GREEN USB power bar. Unfortunately it's no longer available to buy. Capacity is 9000mAh. This unit claims to output 2.1amps on 1 USB / 1A on the other.
 

Is this using the dual USB-a cord or a single USB-A cable?
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: dactylus on June 04, 2017, 07:37:12 AM

Pro-Sound (NYC) is a distributor for the UK based Hawk-Woods company.  I sent Hawk-Woods a message asking about other USA distributors for these two SD approved Hawk-Woods products for the new MixPre 3/6 series.  I also sent Pro-Sound a message inquiring on pricing for the above two items.  I purchased my Aeta 4MinX from Justin @ Pro-Sound.  Unfortunately Justin no longer works there.

http://www.pro-sound.com/c/hawk-woods.html


Two of the powering choices from the SD recommended power list:

D-Tap to L-mount adapter for use with the optional MX-LMount battery sled.
See http://www.hawkwoods.co.uk/Prods/Product/LR-05.

The LR-05 allows the user to power Sony NPF cameras/equipment from an external power source. The dummy NPF battery contains an 8V regulator allowing batteries of 14.4v to run 7.2-8v cameras/equipment for a much greater run-time.

Power-con (D-Tap) - 45cm - Sony Type NPF dummy battery


Hirose to L-mount adapter for use with the optional MX-LMount battery sled.
See http://www.hawkwoods.co.uk/Prods/Product/LR-06.

Hirose 4-pin (male) - Sony NPF Dummy (45cm) 8V Regulated

The LR-06 is a dummy battery which allows the user to use a higher capacity external power source for greatly extended run times. Ideal when powering cameras such as NEX-FS700, PMW-EX1 & PMW-EX3.

45cm Length
8V regulated
Hirose 4 pin Male
Mini DV (NPF/L-Series) Dummy Battery



Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: dogmusic on June 04, 2017, 08:03:06 AM

The limiting factor with using a USB-c to USB-A cable and  USB-A centric battery appears to me to be the cable. These cables must be limiting amperage to .9 - 1 amp. I was also under the impression USB batteries could output 2.1-2.4 but only some cables will actually pass this through. The dual USB-a cable gets around this by doubling the amperage. I ran tonight with both USB-a end connected to the same battery and did not get warnings and have a full green plug.

Ted found two USB-C to USB-A cables that work with his current batteries. These must pass through the full amperage.  As far as I an tell this goes against the safety precautions that should be a USB-A to USB-c cable but these cables also have downwards USB-c connectors and are very appealing fro ma cable point of view

Here is an extensive article on the proper USB-C cables with the required 56K ohm Pull-up Resistor. Apparently even if the 56K ohm Pull-up Resistor is present, it may not be set up correctly!

http://www.androidauthority.com/usb-type-c-and-3-1-explained-656552/

And here is a guy who tests these cables and rates them for proper setup:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/profile/amzn1.account.AFLICGQRF6BRJGH2RRD4VGMB47ZA?ie=UTF8&ref_=cm_cr_rev_detpdp
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: rippleish20 on June 04, 2017, 11:34:29 AM

The limiting factor with using a USB-c to USB-A cable and  USB-A centric battery appears to me to be the cable. These cables must be limiting amperage to .9 - 1 amp. I was also under the impression USB batteries could output 2.1-2.4 but only some cables will actually pass this through. The dual USB-a cable gets around this by doubling the amperage. I ran tonight with both USB-a end connected to the same battery and did not get warnings and have a full green plug.

Ted found two USB-C to USB-A cables that work with his current batteries. These must pass through the full amperage.  As far as I an tell this goes against the safety precautions that should be a USB-A to USB-c cable but these cables also have downwards USB-c connectors and are very appealing fro ma cable point of view

Here is an extensive article on the proper USB-C cables with the required 56K ohm Pull-up Resistor. Apparently even if the 56K ohm Pull-up Resistor is present, it may not be set up correctly!

http://www.androidauthority.com/usb-type-c-and-3-1-explained-656552/

And here is a guy who tests these cables and rates them for proper setup:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/profile/amzn1.account.AFLICGQRF6BRJGH2RRD4VGMB47ZA?ie=UTF8&ref_=cm_cr_rev_detpdp

I tried one of the cables that he highly recommended , with the resistor , and it doesn't work. From my reading the resistor provides protection against too high of a current difference between the USB-a side and the USB-c side, but should allow for sufficient amperage to pass through for our needs and yet it doesn't work. I don't entirely understand the subtleties =. I suspect the cables Ted found dont provide the resistors and just pass the power though. This may be fine but its the same problem the google engineer found with cables before he started reviewing them.

The l-mount alternative is a good one but the stuff is cumbersome in my opinion. It would allow me to use the USB-0c port for streaming however, so I will probably try this also
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: jbell on June 04, 2017, 01:00:12 PM
Bought mine Friday and it has already shipped!  Got it from B&H

^
Thanks for the link.

Are the sleds for the Sony style batteries shipping too?  I hope to see my MP-6 next week.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: dogmusic on June 04, 2017, 01:17:29 PM

I tried one of the cables that he highly recommended , with the resistor , and it doesn't work.

Which cable didn't work?

I'm probably ordering this one:

https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B01A6F3WHG/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=AREE309N4XPXI&psc=1

It's an Anker cable so I figure it should have a good chance of working.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: dogmusic on June 04, 2017, 01:42:28 PM
I have a question about AC wall adapters for when I'll be using the MP6 indoors for many hours.

The Sound Devices AC Adapter- MX-Charge is listed as 17W.

Would any USB-C adapter/charger with a rating above 17w probably work as well?

Such as this Anker 24W:

https://www.amazon.ca/PowerIQ-Anker-Charger-PowerPort-included/dp/B01CJ90J6O/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_product_sims?ie=UTF8

There's also a very cheap Ravpower which comes with online warnings about using it with high-draw devices. This is from an Amazon reviewer:

https://www.amazon.ca/Type-C-Charger-RAVPower-MacBook-iSmart/product-reviews/B01M0J689A/ref=dpx_acr_txt?showViewpoints=1

"As others have pointed out, the microchip inside the charger was incorrectly programmed so it does not limit itself to the rated output (36W). However, if you plug in devices that do not pull more than 36W of power, you will be fine. I use it as secondary chargers for my Macbook 12" and smartphones and the charger barely gets warm. So if you have Macbook Pro or Dell XPS, stay away from this charger - it's not rated high enough for your devices anyway and because of the flaw, it can be dangerous."

Would I be okay using it with the MP6 as an AC adapter or am I courting danger?

Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: rippleish20 on June 04, 2017, 01:48:49 PM

I tried one of the cables that he highly recommended , with the resistor , and it doesn't work.

Which cable didn't work?

I'm probably ordering this one:

https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B01A6F3WHG/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=AREE309N4XPXI&psc=1

It's an Anker cable so I figure it should have a good chance of working.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B010VFFU1W/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1


The google engineers eview says it is complaint and

"On the technical side, this cable conforms to the USB Type C Specification version 1.1, meaning that it correctly identifies to the Type-C device that it is a legacy USB cable using a 56k' pullup to Vbus. For charging, this means that this supports BC 1.2 charging speeds, up to a maximum current of 2.4A at 5V."

You would think thus cabe would work


Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: dogmusic on June 04, 2017, 01:52:20 PM

I tried one of the cables that he highly recommended , with the resistor , and it doesn't work.

Which cable didn't work?

I'm probably ordering this one:

https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B01A6F3WHG/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=AREE309N4XPXI&psc=1

It's an Anker cable so I figure it should have a good chance of working.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B010VFFU1W/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1


The google engineers eview says it is complaint and

"On the technical side, this cable conforms to the USB Type C Specification version 1.1, meaning that it correctly identifies to the Type-C device that it is a legacy USB cable using a 56k' pullup to Vbus. For charging, this means that this supports BC 1.2 charging speeds, up to a maximum current of 2.4A at 5V."

You would think thus cabe would work

Which USB battery did you try?
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: johnw on June 04, 2017, 02:30:08 PM

I tried one of the cables that he highly recommended , with the resistor , and it doesn't work.

Which cable didn't work?

I'm probably ordering this one:

https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B01A6F3WHG/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=AREE309N4XPXI&psc=1

It's an Anker cable so I figure it should have a good chance of working.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B010VFFU1W/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1


The google engineers eview says it is complaint and

"On the technical side, this cable conforms to the USB Type C Specification version 1.1, meaning that it correctly identifies to the Type-C device that it is a legacy USB cable using a 56k' pullup to Vbus. For charging, this means that this supports BC 1.2 charging speeds, up to a maximum current of 2.4A at 5V."

You would think thus cabe would work

If you are trying to provide 4 channels of phantom power or just have the power light stay green, No, I don't believe it would work - it needs to have a maximum of 3A at 5V to work based on what Paul posted. The device needs 15W over USB C. The only cable that can support this is a USB C to USB C cable.

Again, Sound Devices has already posted a document on what they recommend and there is a recommended battery on this document:

Here's the list with an approved USB battery
https://www.sounddevices.com/tech-notes/mixpre-3-mixpre-6-powering-options

And here's the battery
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B014ZO46LK/ref=sr_1_10?ie=UTF8&sr=1-10&tag=ianker-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399373&creativeASIN=B014ZO46LK&keywords=battery+charge&qid=1496527076&kwr_id=179

Buy that battery and an approved USB C to USB C cable. Here's the cheapest option that is proven safe (on Benson's list)
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01GGKYZQM/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Otherwise use the 2x USB A to USB C Y cable that comes with the unit and plug both the USB A ends into a battery

There are no right angle USB C to USB C cables that are proven to be safe. None of the USB A to USB C cables (including the right angle ones) will provide enough power to keep the light green if they are built to the appropriate standard. If they seem to be working, they are not performing according to specification and may ultimately cause damage.

This is one of the few C to C cable that is at an angle but it hasn't been tested and there are no reviews. It also goes to the side and will block the XLRs or run out the front of the Mix Pre. I am going to pass until I see it has been tested.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01N41JUI4/ref=ox_sc_sfl_title_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A21TE5CLHZDYA7

I personally would not risk a $7-900 brand new device by using an untested cable or one that is not built within spec. I also would not advise trying to save a few dollars on an untested or faulty power supply.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: rippleish20 on June 04, 2017, 02:58:58 PM


If you are trying to provide 4 channels of phantom power or just have the power light stay green, No, I don't believe it would work - it needs to have a maximum of 3A at 5V to work based on what Paul posted. The device needs 15W over USB C. The only cable that can support this is a USB C to USB C cable.

Again, Sound Devices has already posted a document on what they recommend and there is a recommended battery on this document:

Here's the list with an approved USB battery
https://www.sounddevices.com/tech-notes/mixpre-3-mixpre-6-powering-options

And here's the battery
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B014ZO46LK/ref=sr_1_10?ie=UTF8&sr=1-10&tag=ianker-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399373&creativeASIN=B014ZO46LK&keywords=battery+charge&qid=1496527076&kwr_id=179

Buy that battery and an approved USB C to USB C cable. Here's the cheapest option that is proven safe (on Benson's list)
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01GGKYZQM/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Otherwise use the 2x USB A to USB C Y cable that comes with the unit and plug both the USB A ends into a battery

There are no right angle USB C to USB C cables that are proven to be safe. None of the USB A to USB C cables (including the right angle ones) will provide enough power to keep the light green if they are built to the appropriate standard. If they seem to be working, they are not performing according to specification and may ultimately cause damage.

This is one of the few C to C cable that is at an angle but it hasn't been tested and there are no reviews. It also goes to the side and will block the XLRs or run out the front of the Mix Pre. I am going to pass until I see it has been tested.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01N41JUI4/ref=ox_sc_sfl_title_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A21TE5CLHZDYA7

I personally would not risk a $7-900 brand new device by using an untested cable or one that is not built within spec. I also would not advise trying to save a few dollars on an untested or faulty power supply.

Thats why I am going with a USB-c solution.  My questions about USB-a to USB-c cables are because to I am interested in knowing why the cable wont work. If the mixpre requires a minimum of 15 watts that explains it.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: sos on June 04, 2017, 03:14:01 PM
As far as Ankers go, I'd assume this bundle would work, as well? Includes charger and USB-C > USB-C cable...

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MZ61PRW/ref=psdc_7073960011_t2_B01K6TA748
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: johnw on June 04, 2017, 03:29:21 PM
As far as Ankers go, I'd assume this bundle would work, as well? Includes charger and USB-C to USB-C cable...

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MZ61PRW/ref=psdc_7073960011_t2_B01K6TA748

Yes I believe that should work. Pretty good deal as the cables and charger are worth $35-40.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: dogmusic on June 04, 2017, 03:37:36 PM
This is from the "Sound Devices - MixPre-3 & MixPre-6 Powering Options" page:

"To fully power the MixPre-3 or MixPre-6 from a USB power source not listed above, you will need BOTH of the following:
1. USB-C power source that is compliant with the USB powering specification and is able to output 7.5W
2. USB-C cable that incorporates the correct pull-up resistors to identify itself as able to provide 7.5W

NOTE: A USB-A power source used in conjunction with a USB-A to USB-C cable cannot deliver the required 7.5W for full power operation."

I can't find where Sound Devices posted the requirement of 15W.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: johnw on June 04, 2017, 05:03:40 PM
My apologies as I do appear to be mistaken about the power wattage requirement. Not sure why SD would say that a USBA to USB C could not deliver 7.5W assuming 2.4A output. I have a few of these chargers made by apple that provide 12W...

https://www.apple.com/shop/product/MD836LL/A/apple-12w-usb-power-adapter

Given people's experience with the orange light on the Mix Pre when powering over a USB A cable, I would have to assume that the 7.5W is a typo and it is indeed trying to draw more current than 2.4A. Alternatively, the batteries aren't providing more than 1.2A but that seems less likely
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: rippleish20 on June 04, 2017, 08:21:53 PM
It looks like the "default" amperage for USB 3.1 is .9 amps. A complaint USB-c to USB-a cable is supposed to use a 56 kΩ resistor, limiting it to .9 amps. A USB-c to USB-c cable uses a 10 kΩ resistor, which allows for up to 3 amps. I would assume the cables that have been found to work by Ted either dont have resistors or have a 22 kΩ, allowing for 1.5amps, which is presumably the minimum needed for the mixpre.


http://www.cypress.com/knowledge-base-article/termination-resistors-required-usb-type-c-connector-kba97180

https://www.chromium.org/chromium-os/cable-and-adapter-tips-and-tricks

https://www.extremetech.com/computing/115251-how-usb-charging-works-or-how-to-avoid-blowing-up-your-smartphone



https://www.amazon.com/Manhattan-353298-USB-CABLE-C-M/product-reviews/B015MGH0RM


  Manhattan USB Type-C cable is not spec compliant. May cause damage to charger, hub or PC USB ports.
ByBenson Leung

Manhattan USB Type-C cable is not spec compliant. May cause damage to charger, hub or PC USB ports.
ByBenson LeungTOP 100 REVIEWERon February 29, 2016

Benson again continuing my reviews of USB Type-C legacy cables. This time, I'm reviewing Manhattan's "353298 MH USB C CABLE C-M TO A-M"

This cable does not correctly follow the USB Type C specification Release 1.1. To find the specification, please go to usb.org, and look under developers/usbtypec.

Specifically, using this charging cable, the Chromebook Pixel will attempt to draw 1.5A of current over the cable, potentially damaging the USB hub or charger on the A side, which is not guaranteed to be rated at 1.5A.

Please see Section 4.11 of the Type-C specification and the following note :

1. For Rp when implemented in the USB Type-C plug on a USB Type-C to USB 3.1 Standard-A Cable
Assembly, a USB Type-C to USB 2.0 Standard-A Cable Assembly, a USB Type-C to USB 2.0 Micro-B
Receptacle Adapter Assembly or a USB Type-C captive cable connected to a USB host, a value of 56 kΩ
± 5% shall be used, in order to provide tolerance to IR drop on V BUS and GND in the cable assembly.

In other words, since you are creating a USB Type-C plug to a USB 2.0 Type-A Plug assembly, you must use a resistor of value 56kΩ as a pull-up on CC (configuration channel). According to my testing, your cable uses a 22kΩ pull-up, which is not legal when the other end of the cable or adapter is a legacy Type-A or Type-B connector or receptacle.


Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: celticrogues on June 06, 2017, 11:07:34 PM
I get a green indicator on my MixPre-6 (fully powered) using this adapter:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B017TJN22C/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

To this cable:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00HSS9IDW/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

And powered from either this battery:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00935L44E/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Or from my Macbook Pro.

-Mike
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: rippleish20 on June 07, 2017, 08:48:31 PM
I bought one of these and it works with no issues. Its very thin and very simikar in size to the mixpre itself

https://www.monoprice.com/product?p_id=16240

I bought one of their USB-c to USB-c cables as well as the Amazon one and both work as expected with the battery. The Monoprice cable is thicker an stiffer. The Amazon one seems perfect for use with the Mixpre as its supple and fits tightly and give me less of a "this is going to damage the port" feeling than with the other cable, especially the one that comes with the Mixpre
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: willndmb on June 07, 2017, 09:01:38 PM
I bought one of these and it works with no issues. Its very thin and very simikar in size to the mixpre itself

https://www.monoprice.com/product?p_id=16240

I bought one of their USB-c to USB-c cables as well as the Amazon one and both work as expected with the battery. The Monoprice cable is thicker an stiffer. The Amazon one seems perfect for use with the Mixpre as its supple and fits tightly and give me less of a "this is going to damage the port" feeling than with the other cable, especially the one that comes with the Mixpre
i like the cost and size of this battery vs others so far

They have a 6" cable which might be nice for a gear bag
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: rippleish20 on June 07, 2017, 09:28:03 PM
I bought one of these and it works with no issues. Its very thin and very simikar in size to the mixpre itself

https://www.monoprice.com/product?p_id=16240

I bought one of their USB-c to USB-c cables as well as the Amazon one and both work as expected with the battery. The Monoprice cable is thicker an stiffer. The Amazon one seems perfect for use with the Mixpre as its supple and fits tightly and give me less of a "this is going to damage the port" feeling than with the other cable, especially the one that comes with the Mixpre
i like the cost and size of this battery vs others so far

They have a 6" cable which might be nice for a gear bag

The one I bought is 1.5 feet.

The battery form factor appeals to me

Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: willndmb on June 07, 2017, 09:49:58 PM
I bought one of these and it works with no issues. Its very thin and very simikar in size to the mixpre itself

https://www.monoprice.com/product?p_id=16240

I bought one of their USB-c to USB-c cables as well as the Amazon one and both work as expected with the battery. The Monoprice cable is thicker an stiffer. The Amazon one seems perfect for use with the Mixpre as its supple and fits tightly and give me less of a "this is going to damage the port" feeling than with the other cable, especially the one that comes with the Mixpre
i like the cost and size of this battery vs others so far

They have a 6" cable which might be nice for a gear bag

The one I bought is 1.5 feet.

The battery form factor appeals to me
yeah that's nice. For me I would have the mp6 sitting on top of the battery and then stand them up in my bag, perfect fit it looks like
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: F.O.Bean on June 07, 2017, 10:50:43 PM
My conclusion is the best route is to use a battery equipped with USB-c output and a USB-c to USB-c cable. The optional AC power supply delivers 5v @ 3Amps (15 watts), which is what the USB-c Anker battery they suggest outputs. This probably is what the unit would like to see.


I bought one of these for testing

https://www.monoprice.com/product?p_id=16240

Output 2: USB-C 5V/3A



SD says the unit need 7.5 watts 5v x 1.5 amps) - this is probably the minimum needed.

The limiting factor with using a USB-c to USB-A cable and  USB-A centric battery appears to me to be the cable. These cables must be limiting amperage to .9 - 1 amp. I was also under the impression USB batteries could output 2.1-2.4 but only some cables will actually pass this through. The dual USB-a cable gets around this by doubling the amperage. I ran tonight with both USB-a end connected to the same battery and did not get warnings and have a full green plug.

Ted found two USB-C to USB-A cables that work with his current batteries. These must pass through the full amperage.  As far as I an tell this goes against the safety precautions that should be a USB-A to USB-c cable but these cables also have downwards USB-c connectors and are very appealing fro ma cable point of view

Bingo! The problem here is PROBABLY the cables being used. I know that MP3/6 comes with a Dual USB A>USB C cable, but I still think the proper USB A>C cable will power the MP6 just fine! And if the Powercore 20,000mah battery can pump out 2.4A per port, and you're using the SD Dual USB A>C cable, then it SHOULD be giving the MP6 4.8A from BOTH USB ports, not just 2.4A total from BOTH ports ;) So I don't see why a single USB C>C cable would give a higher output than 4.8A using the Dual USB A>C cable ??? Even if your battery/charger is outputting 3A, if the cable can't handle speeds that fast, then the nicer battery will have zero effect. But what I can't understand is that if the MP6 needs 3A, why can't the included Dual USB A>C Cable provide enough juice @4.8A with both USB ports?

I JUST went through the process of giving away ALL of my old USB cables and doing LOTS of USB cable research, and bought ALL new Anker stuff recently [including their Powerline USB cables & Powerport chargers], and I couldn't be any happier! I'll def be buying an Anker 20,000mah Powercore AND Powercore+ to see if its really the battery, or the cables :) I can't recommend Anker stuff ANY more!
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: F.O.Bean on June 07, 2017, 11:01:15 PM

I tried one of the cables that he highly recommended , with the resistor , and it doesn't work.

Which cable didn't work?

I'm probably ordering this one:

https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B01A6F3WHG/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=AREE309N4XPXI&psc=1

It's an Anker cable so I figure it should have a good chance of working.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B010VFFU1W/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1


The google engineers eview says it is complaint and

"On the technical side, this cable conforms to the USB Type C Specification version 1.1, meaning that it correctly identifies to the Type-C device that it is a legacy USB cable using a 56k' pullup to Vbus. For charging, this means that this supports BC 1.2 charging speeds, up to a maximum current of 2.4A at 5V."

You would think thus cabe would work

If you are trying to provide 4 channels of phantom power or just have the power light stay green, No, I don't believe it would work - it needs to have a maximum of 3A at 5V to work based on what Paul posted. The device needs 15W over USB C. The only cable that can support this is a USB C to USB C cable.

Again, Sound Devices has already posted a document on what they recommend and there is a recommended battery on this document:

Here's the list with an approved USB battery
https://www.sounddevices.com/tech-notes/mixpre-3-mixpre-6-powering-options

And here's the battery
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B014ZO46LK/ref=sr_1_10?ie=UTF8&sr=1-10&tag=ianker-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399373&creativeASIN=B014ZO46LK&keywords=battery+charge&qid=1496527076&kwr_id=179

Buy that battery and an approved USB C to USB C cable. Here's the cheapest option that is proven safe (on Benson's list)
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01GGKYZQM/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Otherwise use the 2x USB A to USB C Y cable that comes with the unit and plug both the USB A ends into a battery

There are no right angle USB C to USB C cables that are proven to be safe. None of the USB A to USB C cables (including the right angle ones) will provide enough power to keep the light green if they are built to the appropriate standard. If they seem to be working, they are not performing according to specification and may ultimately cause damage.

This is one of the few C to C cable that is at an angle but it hasn't been tested and there are no reviews. It also goes to the side and will block the XLRs or run out the front of the Mix Pre. I am going to pass until I see it has been tested.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01N41JUI4/ref=ox_sc_sfl_title_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A21TE5CLHZDYA7

I personally would not risk a $7-900 brand new device by using an untested cable or one that is not built within spec. I also would not advise trying to save a few dollars on an untested or faulty power supply.

Well said brotha! I already decided I wanted to buy Anker USB Batteries and Chargers & Cables from NOW ON, so I'm probably going to give the Powercore+ a try first! With the included USB C>C Cable and the A & C Outputs, for $65/Shipped, seems like a great deal to me and a great way to make sure your device is being properly powered from a RELIABLE company ;) No reason to risk a $900 deck with a $1.50 cable :)
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: F.O.Bean on June 07, 2017, 11:53:51 PM
Also, I just did some research on the different Anker batteries! Here's what I found out! I obviously HAVEN'T used a MixPre3/6 yet, but after reading this thread and NUMEROUS different cables and batteries for my MP6, here's my conclusions and opinions!

The Anker batteries ALL differ in their output! They make quite a few different models that output 3A@MAX, but unfortunately the Powercore 20,100 you bought, only supplies 2.4A/per port :( If you'd have gotten the Powercore 26,800 or a few of their smaller sizes that output 3A, then I'd bet the farm that you'd be FINE with a SINGLE Anker USB A>C cable from the 3A port on that battery! They make a bunch of different batteries, and only a handful of them have USB A ports that can output 3A. So that said, I will DEFINITELY be buying the Anker batteries that can output 3A@MAX, so that they can RELIABLY supply enough power to my MP6 using a single USB A>C or USB C>C cable! As always, I'll keep yinz updated on all of this once I get my MP6 in hand and try out all of the different cables that I got for it :)

I'll be buying an Anker USB battery with a 3A@MAX USB A output here soon to test it out with the MP6 and my Anker Powerline USB cables and Adapters! Damn, that's a lot of typing USB :P And I also plan on buying the 8xAA Battery tray for my MP6! I don't like how cumbersome and how much bigger the L-Mount Battery Tray is, so I'll be avoiding the L-Series batteries for right now! But I like the extra height that the 8xAA Battery Tray gives the MP6, since it's so damn small ;D
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: Vunz on June 08, 2017, 04:05:47 AM
I use the Anker Powercore+ with my mp6, and works perfectly. The battery comes with a usb-c to usb-c cable, as well as a usb-c to usb-a cable (which can be used to charge the battery). A usb-a to micro usbcable is also included.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: dactylus on June 08, 2017, 06:43:49 AM
I use the Anker Powercore+ with my mp6, and works perfectly. The battery comes with a usb-c to usb-c cable, as well as a usb-c to usb-a cable (which can be used to charge the battery). A usb-a to micro usbcable is also included.

^
Thanks Vunz!
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: johnw on June 08, 2017, 07:58:50 AM
Also, I just did some research on the different Anker batteries! Here's what I found out! I obviously HAVEN'T used a MixPre3/6 yet, but after reading this thread and NUMEROUS different cables and batteries for my MP6, here's my conclusions and opinions!

The Anker batteries ALL differ in their output! They make quite a few different models that output 3A@MAX, but unfortunately the Powercore 20,100 you bought, only supplies 2.4A/per port :( If you'd have gotten the Powercore 26,800 or a few of their smaller sizes that output 3A, then I'd bet the farm that you'd be FINE with a SINGLE Anker USB A>C cable from the 3A port on that battery! They make a bunch of different batteries, and only a handful of them have USB A ports that can output 3A. So that said, I will DEFINITELY be buying the Anker batteries that can output 3A@MAX, so that they can RELIABLY supply enough power to my MP6 using a single USB A>C or USB C>C cable! As always, I'll keep yinz updated on all of this once I get my MP6 in hand and try out all of the different cables that I got for it :)

I'll be buying an Anker USB battery with a 3A@MAX USB A output here soon to test it out with the MP6 and my Anker Powerline USB cables and Adapters! Damn, that's a lot of typing USB :P And I also plan on buying the 8xAA Battery tray for my MP6! I don't like how cumbersome and how much bigger the L-Mount Battery Tray is, so I'll be avoiding the L-Series batteries for right now! But I like the extra height that the 8xAA Battery Tray gives the MP6, since it's so damn small ;D

I would suggest contacting Sound Devices before buying a battery. According to Paul Isaacs and the manual, a properly designed USB A to C cable won't provide enough power for phantom on all 4 channels. If such a cable is providing enough power, it isn't designed to spec and may damage the Mix Pre or battery. I don't understand why a properly designed cable won't provide the required 7.5 W as I believe it should pass 1.5A at 5V with the proper pull down resistor selected. If someone here has the 26800 and it powers a Mix Pre 6 with including USB A to C (that is within spec), I'd love to hear about it. But unless Sound Devices says it will work, or someone else proves it works (again with a certified cable), I wouldn't buy that battery as it doesn't have a USB C 3A output.

If it helps, I will post a picture of the size of the USB A to C right angle cable I have vs the straight USB C to C. There isn't much difference.

Also, would it be worth moving this thread to the Remote power section?
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: Jhurlbs81 on June 08, 2017, 09:03:24 AM
Seems like the L sleds are the way to go.  The USB option seems like more trouble than it's worth.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: dogmusic on June 08, 2017, 09:18:37 AM

I would suggest contacting Sound Devices before buying a battery.

I've tried that. They won't comment on or approve any battery they haven't tested (understandably). And the only one they appear to have tested is the one they recommend.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: rippleish20 on June 08, 2017, 09:40:42 AM
Ugh. Read what I posted earlier in this thread:

1. According to Spec, a USB-A to USB-C cable is limited to providing .9 amps. Yes some cables allow for more the .9 amos but they are violating the spec. This is why they provide the y cable 2 x .9 = 1.8 amps. A USB-c to USB-c cable , however, can allow through up to 3amps according to spec. These cables use a different resistor.

2. The fact that your USB-A battery can output 2.4 amps or whatever is not important as the cable can only allow through .9 amps if it meets spec!
   
   The SD tech note on battery options says NO USB-c to USB-a single cable will work. Paul says using such a cable that happens to work is at your own risk because it violates the spec!

   Yes, a USB-c to USB-a cable with the right resistor would pass through 1.5 amps but the spec says these USB-c to USB-a cables need to use the 56 ohm resistor which limits it to .9 amps. My earlier post includes a comment from a amazon review by the google engineer who has been testing cables to see if they follow spec and is about that exact scenario - where a cable has a resistor which will allow 1.5 amps through and the engineer explains that this breaks spec

3. Any USB-c battery which outputs up to 3amps should be ok. The anker is fine but if you want something less expense the monprice is fine. The Amazon USB0c to USB-c cable has the resistors and is to spec, which limits it to 3amps anyways.

4. The powercore 20100 is not the same as the powercore 20100+ - the + has USB-c output and can output 3amps
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: willndmb on June 08, 2017, 10:36:55 AM
Is there any real "danger" of using a cable that passes more power then it is supposed to be spec at?
I mean if your battery outs 2.4 and the mp6 is looking for 3, what's the potential issues??
I could see if the mp6 was looking for 3 and your battery was sending sayyyyy 7
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: johnw on June 08, 2017, 10:39:44 AM
Ugh. Read what I posted earlier in this thread:

1. According to Spec, a USB-A to USB-C cable is limited to providing .9 amps. Yes some cables allow for more the .9 amos but they are violating the spec. This is why they provide the y cable 2 x .9 = 1.8 amps. A USB-c to USB-c cable , however, can allow through up to 3amps according to spec. These cables use a different resistor.

2. The fact that your USB-A battery can output 2.4 amps or whatever is not important as the cable can only allow through .9 amps if it meets spec!
   
   The SD tech note on battery options says NO USB-c to USB-a single cable will work. Paul says using such a cable that happens to work is at your own risk because it violates the spec!

   Yes, a USB-c to USB-a cable with the right resistor would pass through 1.5 amps but the spec says these USB-c to USB-a cables need to use the 56 ohm resistor which limits it to .9 amps. My earlier post includes a comment from a amazon review by the google engineer who has been testing cables to see if they follow spec and is about that exact scenario - where a cable has a resistor which will allow 1.5 amps through and the engineer explains that this breaks spec

3. Any USB-c battery which outputs up to 3amps should be ok. The anker is fine but if you want something less expense the monprice is fine. The Amazon USB0c to USB-c cable has the resistors and is to spec, which limits it to 3amps anyways.

4. The powercore 20100 is not the same as the powercore 20100+ - the + has USB-c output and can output 3amps

Thank you. This is a very succinct/clear summary of what I feel is a complex and confusing problem.

If someone wanted a higher capacity battery, I believe the $99 Power Core+ 26800 would work just as well as the 20100+ as both have USB C 3A outputs.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MZ61PRW/ref=psdc_7073960011_t2_B01K6TA748

Note that this is a different battery than the below $69 Power Core + 26800 which DOES NOT have a USB C output but claims to have 3A outputs (over USB A connection)
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01K6TA748/ref=psdc_7073960011_t1_B01MZ61PRW

Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: Gordon on June 08, 2017, 10:41:43 AM
Bought mine Friday and it has already shipped!  Got it from B&H

^
Thanks for the link.

Are the sleds for the Sony style batteries shipping too?  I hope to see my MP-6 next week.

Ready to test her out this weekend?!
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: rippleish20 on June 08, 2017, 10:41:54 AM
Is there any real "danger" of using a cable that passes more power then it is supposed to be spec at?
I mean if your battery outs 2.4 and the mp6 is looking for 3, what's the potential issues??
I could see if the mp6 was looking for 3 and your battery was sending sayyyyy 7

My guess would be nothing. USB-a batteries with an output of 1.5 - 2.4 amps are probably totally safe in  conjunction with a cable thats allows that to pass through. Ted has been using such a setup with no problems. The spec is designed to protect people from scenarios where one side is sending or asking for more than the other side can handle. I did the research because I wanted to know WHY the cables weren't working. My personal preference is to use cables in spec...
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: johnw on June 08, 2017, 10:42:26 AM
Is there any real "danger" of using a cable that passes more power then it is supposed to be spec at?
I mean if your battery outs 2.4 and the mp6 is looking for 3, what's the potential issues??
I could see if the mp6 was looking for 3 and your battery was sending sayyyyy 7

I am not sure, but there are a number of reports of damaged macbooks, android phones, etc from using an incorrect cable. I believe in this case, the mp6 is looking for 1.5a over a cable that should only be spec'd for 0.9A. I would imagine this could generate heat along the cable and possibly battery. I wouldn't risk it.

EDIT: ripplephish20 beat me to a response and I think he has a much better grasp on this than I do. I still wouldn't do it. The USB C straight cables don't protrude significantly more than the right angle USB C cables and they both wiggle pretty significantly on the Mix Pre. There just isn't any reason in my mind to use a USB A to USB C cable.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: Paul Isaacs on June 08, 2017, 10:47:33 AM
Is there any real "danger" of using a cable that passes more power then it is supposed to be spec at?
I mean if your battery outs 2.4 and the mp6 is looking for 3, what's the potential issues??
I could see if the mp6 was looking for 3 and your battery was sending sayyyyy 7

The MixPre is not looking for 3A. It needs 1.5A at 5V i.e. 7.5W

A USB-C to A cable that has a built-in resistor to allow the MixPre to draw full power from a USB-A power source that can't deliver 7.5W could potentially damage your USB power source or cause the MixPre to not function properly. You use these cables at your own risk. Be sure that your USB-A source can deliver 7.5W (1.5A at 5V)
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: johnw on June 08, 2017, 10:48:28 AM
Fatah Ruark - could you sticky or revise your first post to cover the batteries that have been tested and work? Or should we make a new thread in the remote power section?

Batteries with 3A USB C output that have been tested and work:

Monoprice Executive Series 15,000 mAh
https://www.monoprice.com/product?p_id=16240

Anker Power Core+ 20,100 mAh
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B014ZO46LK/ref=psdc_7073960011_t2_B01MZ61PRW

Not tested but have 3A USB C output and should work:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MZ61PRW/ref=psdc_7073960011_t2_B01K6TA748

Not within spec but seem to work - use at own risk: see note from Paul Isaacs from Sound Devices

Tecknet iEP390. No longer available

XTPower MP-10,000 mAh
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00935L44E/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Omnicharge Omni 20 20,400 mAh
https://www.amazon.com/Omnicharge-Portable-Charger-Fast-Charging-Adjustable/dp/B01NBJX99D/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1496014261&sr=8-1&keywords=omni+charge
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: willndmb on June 08, 2017, 11:40:08 AM
Is there any real "danger" of using a cable that passes more power then it is supposed to be spec at?
I mean if your battery outs 2.4 and the mp6 is looking for 3, what's the potential issues??
I could see if the mp6 was looking for 3 and your battery was sending sayyyyy 7

The MixPre is not looking for 3A. It needs 1.5A at 5V i.e. 7.5W

A USB-C to A cable that has a built-in resistor to allow the MixPre to draw full power from a USB-A power source that can't deliver 7.5W could potentially damage your USB power source or cause the MixPre to not function properly. You use these cables at your own risk. Be sure that your USB-A source can deliver 7.5W (1.5A at 5V)
thanks for the reply. All the numbers I guess had me confused, for example the SD approved battery says it's output is 2.4 (3) on Amazon so I was thinking it wanted more than 1.5.

But if I am starting to uunderstand all this more and correctly, any USB battery that outputs 1.5A should work as long as the CABLE is made correctly?

This is a battery I have, https://www.amazon.com/RAVPower-Portable-Technology-Smartphones-Black/dp/B00XC1WAQ6/ref=sr_1_1?s=wireless&ie=UTF8&qid=1496935968&sr=1-1&keywords=ravpower+10000
It states it is "smart" and outputs up to 2A on each port based on device draw. Does anyone know if this type of battery would work?
If I'm understanding correct, this battery paired with cable that can pass the 1.5A should work
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: johnw on June 08, 2017, 11:59:29 AM
Is there any real "danger" of using a cable that passes more power then it is supposed to be spec at?
I mean if your battery outs 2.4 and the mp6 is looking for 3, what's the potential issues??
I could see if the mp6 was looking for 3 and your battery was sending sayyyyy 7

The MixPre is not looking for 3A. It needs 1.5A at 5V i.e. 7.5W

A USB-C to A cable that has a built-in resistor to allow the MixPre to draw full power from a USB-A power source that can't deliver 7.5W could potentially damage your USB power source or cause the MixPre to not function properly. You use these cables at your own risk. Be sure that your USB-A source can deliver 7.5W (1.5A at 5V)
thanks for the reply. All the numbers I guess had me confused, for example the SD approved battery says it's output is 2.4 (3) on Amazon so I was thinking it wanted more than 1.5.

But if I am starting to uunderstand all this more and correctly, any USB battery that outputs 1.5A should work as long as the CABLE is made correctly?

This is a battery I have, https://www.amazon.com/RAVPower-Portable-Technology-Smartphones-Black/dp/B00XC1WAQ6/ref=sr_1_1?s=wireless&ie=UTF8&qid=1496935968&sr=1-1&keywords=ravpower+10000
It states it is "smart" and outputs up to 2A on each port based on device draw. Does anyone know if this type of battery would work?
If I'm understanding correct, this battery paired with cable that can pass the 1.5A should work

Actually if the cable is made correctly, it won't work. Any cable with a USB A end that is built to spec should only pass 0.9A and therefore would only provide 4.5W (not 7.5W)

However if you buy a cable that is not made correctly (not to spec), it might pass 1.5 A and might work, but is not supported and may cause damage.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: rippleish20 on June 08, 2017, 12:00:16 PM
Is there any real "danger" of using a cable that passes more power then it is supposed to be spec at?
I mean if your battery outs 2.4 and the mp6 is looking for 3, what's the potential issues??
I could see if the mp6 was looking for 3 and your battery was sending sayyyyy 7

The MixPre is not looking for 3A. It needs 1.5A at 5V i.e. 7.5W

A USB-C to A cable that has a built-in resistor to allow the MixPre to draw full power from a USB-A power source that can't deliver 7.5W could potentially damage your USB power source or cause the MixPre to not function properly. You use these cables at your own risk. Be sure that your USB-A source can deliver 7.5W (1.5A at 5V)
thanks for the reply. All the numbers I guess had me confused, for example the SD approved battery says it's output is 2.4 (3) on Amazon so I was thinking it wanted more than 1.5.

But if I am starting to uunderstand all this more and correctly, any USB battery that outputs 1.5A should work as long as the CABLE is made correctly?

This is a battery I have, https://www.amazon.com/RAVPower-Portable-Technology-Smartphones-Black/dp/B00XC1WAQ6/ref=sr_1_1?s=wireless&ie=UTF8&qid=1496935968&sr=1-1&keywords=ravpower+10000
It states it is "smart" and outputs up to 2A on each port based on device draw. Does anyone know if this type of battery would work?
If I'm understanding correct, this battery paired with cable that can pass the 1.5A should work

 "this battery paired with cable that can pass the 1.5A should work"

yes, the battery info says

Output: USB A1: 5V/2.4A max, USB A2: 5V/2.1A max



"any USB battery that outputs 1.5A should work as long as the CABLE is made correctly"

yes and no depending on how you define "correctly". A cable that passes at least 1.5 amps should work with any USB-a based battery that outputs at least 1.5 amps per port. This is not "correct" in the sense that such a cable goes against spec. Paul points out a scenario where using such a cable is a bad idea. If you plug such a cable into a port that can't output 1.5 amps you have a device wanting to draw 1.5 amps but cant - this is exactly why non spec cables have damaged equipment in some cases...


I realize how confusing this all sounds. I think I understand the issues at this point but feel free to correct me if someone finds out differently
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: willndmb on June 08, 2017, 12:07:25 PM
Thanks guys, I got it now, I think ;)

So using USB-A, for it to work...
The cable must be made NOT to spec and could cause damage
The dual USB-A cable supplied from SD must be used

Using USB-C...
Those cables have a higher spec rating and so should work as long as the battery can output 1.5A
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: rippleish20 on June 08, 2017, 12:12:51 PM
Thanks guys, I got it now, I think ;)

So using USB-A, for it to work...
The cable must be made NOT to spec and could cause damage
The dual USB-A cable supplied from SD must be used

Using USB-C...
Those cables have a higher spec rating and so should work as long as the battery can output 1.5A

Exactly. 
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: rigpimp on June 08, 2017, 12:59:19 PM
I'm in to folllw what folks find that works but shouldn't this be posted  in Remote Power?
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: johnw on June 08, 2017, 02:12:20 PM
I'm in to folllw what folks find that works but shouldn't this be posted  in Remote Power?

Totally agree. I'm thinking about starting a thread with what works in terms of powering options and run times
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: F.O.Bean on June 09, 2017, 06:43:38 PM
Thanks for the detailed info guys! If Paul said that can cause an issue, then I'm ordering the PowerCore 20,100mah that you and others have already bought, and used correctly! I'm not trying to break/ruin the ONE deck that's going to last me the next 10+ years hopefully, within the first 2 weeks of getting it, just because I wanted to try to use a USB A port :P ;) Thanks again for all of the info fellas! Before the MP6 came out, my knowledge of USB Batteries & Cables was elementary at best, and now that I've thrown away ALL of my old shit and bought new Anker stuff, I couldn't be ANY happier ;)

And would it REALLY be THAT HARD for SD to put on their site, that a USB C Port/Output MUST BE USED, so that the MP3/6 aren't damaged? I think that if it's possible to damage the MP3/6 just by using the wrong USB Batteries & Cables, that SOUND DEVICES should have MENTIONED THAT before a shitload of people buy USB A Batteries, and then have to return them like I have to do now, or even worse, damage their deck :P It only takes a SECOND to put that info SOMEWHERE on their website under the MixPre-3/6 web pages, so that it doesn't KEEP happening to people!

That said, I really appreciate Paul Isaacs@SD coming here onto TS.com and answering our specific questions. Without Paul coming here, we wouldn't know the specifics about the current that we now do ;D 8) So Thanks again Paul, you RAWK!!! :coolguy:
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: dactylus on June 09, 2017, 06:57:14 PM
And would it REALLY be THAT HARD for SD to put on their site, that a USB C Port/Output MUST BE USED, so that the MP3/6 aren't damaged? I think that if it's possible to damage the MP3/6 just by using the wrong USB Batteries & Cables, that SOUND DEVICES should have MENTIONED THAT before a shitload of people buy USB A Batteries, and then have to return them like I have to do now, or even worse, damage their deck :P It only takes a SECOND to put that info SOMEWHERE on their website under the MixPre-3/6 web pages, so that it doesn't KEEP happening to people!

^
Totally agree with that Bean!  I think that it is/was negligent of SD to not have stressed the importance of using a specific combination of "accepted" components to power the new MixPre series without risking damage to the equipment.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: F.O.Bean on June 09, 2017, 08:52:07 PM
OK, just added this to my Cart and I'm buying them as soon as I get the rest of my PP $$ together soon 8) I am just getting the extra Anker Powerline USB C>C cable because it's badass, and should be a fast enough cable@60w to last me a lifetime for the MP6 or any other C>C devices I have[my Google Pixel phone] so that I can charge and power as fast as possible! I wonder if this cable WILL or WON'T work with the MP6 though? It goes UP TO 60w, but should be just fine supplying the 7.5-15w that the MP3/6 needs, right? And you can't beat Anker giving you [2] cables with the battery below that SD recommends! A USB A>C to charge the battery[from my Anker PowerPort 2 & 6], as well as a C>C cable to power your device[MP6 in our case]. Anker, I love you lol ;D Anyway.....

Anker PowerCore 20,100mah USB C Battery & Cables
http://www.ebay.com/itm/222208108720

Anker USB C>C Cable capable of 60w
http://www.ebay.com/itm/222318438295

Thanks again to JohnW and Rippleish and Paul Issacs@SD, as well as everyone else who helped figure out the best MixPre3/6 USB powering options, so that the rest of us know exactly what to buy and what NOT to buy! +T Fellas for being the guinea pigs lol ;D 8)
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: F.O.Bean on June 09, 2017, 08:56:36 PM
I also like the power button for the above battery being on the top of it, vs the side power button of most of the PowerCore Batteries, since it seems the above battery won't accidentally turn ON/OFF as easily as the side button PowerCore batts, where it seems like that would be easier to occur?!
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: old and in the way on June 10, 2017, 07:16:26 AM
i have the omni pro battery and a right angle up down cable that work great. i feel very confident in this . i've run this for 8 hrs about three times . no heat or any problems .i bought a dummy np battery that i will use with the l sled and the omni charge. this will take the fear factor about the usbc away. But for those that have the omni charge i think you will be fine. just my 2 cents!
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: MakersMarc on June 10, 2017, 07:28:16 PM
Anyone test the AA life of the mix pre 3?
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: mitchellm on June 11, 2017, 12:46:59 AM
Anyone test the AA life of the mix pre 3?

Numerous people have posted about this in the regular Mix-Pre thread. There are a lot of variations. I believe all the postings were about using a 2 phantom powered mics. I personally get about 2.5 hours, but less if the rechargeable batteries I'm using at any one time have already been recharged numerous times over the years. Some folks get less, a few get more. Of course if you are using dynamic mics you should get a lot more time out of batteries.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: dogmusic on June 11, 2017, 10:09:39 AM
Got my MixPre-6 on Thursday. Really nice machine.

I've had to spend a lot of time figuring out the system so as to record in my usual setup. So this morning I finally did a battery test.

Running the MP6 at 24/192, recording only on Channels 1 & 2 (did NOT record the MIX LR tracks), phantom power on both channels, Bluetooth OFF, LCD at 1, LED at 2, using POWEREX Imedion 2400 mAH NiMH batteries, I got 2h16m runtime.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: MakersMarc on June 11, 2017, 11:50:26 AM
Anyone test the AA life of the mix pre 3?

Numerous people have posted about this in the regular Mix-Pre thread. There are a lot of variations. I believe all the postings were about using a 2 phantom powered mics. I personally get about 2.5 hours, but less if the rechargeable batteries I'm using at any one time have already been recharged numerous times over the years. Some folks get less, a few get more. Of course if you are using dynamic mics you should get a lot more time out of batteries.

Thanks for the summary, much appreciated. Had thought of turning my two warm mod 661s into a mixpre 3 but that battery life is cutting it too close for me, that's about what my 661s do mic in. Still, what a cool little box.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: mitchellm on June 11, 2017, 12:05:18 PM
Remember there are a lot of powering options including the 8 AA battery sled, the Sony battery option (which apparently gets very long life), and some other powering options. Still the MixPre-3 would not be for you ... but I wouldn't let batteries get in the way. There are several nice powering options. I only need about 2 hours max at a time, so I'm happy as is. Otherwise I'd go with some of the higher end options.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: rippleish20 on June 11, 2017, 09:08:08 PM
Anyone test the AA life of the mix pre 3?

This is just a baseline test, but I recorded a SBD feed (with lowered LED and LCDs) and got well over 5 hours with the 8 battery sled. And the plug was still green when I turned the deck off.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: rigpimp on June 12, 2017, 01:43:47 AM
A guy on the facebook mixpre users group said this battery usb-C to usc-C ran his Mixpre-3 for 22.75 hours. 

https://www.amazon.com/RAVPower-Portable-26800mAh-Recharged-Nintendo/dp/B01LRQDAEI/ref=sr_1_2?s=wireless&ie=UTF8&qid=1497245804&sr=1-2&keywords=ravpower+26%2C800

A pair of phantom powered MKH8020; Headphones connected with HP gain at 85; Display and LED brightness 2; Bluetooth off; Recording 24/48 - two stereo channels
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: justink on June 12, 2017, 11:15:56 AM
this is too confusing.

y'all figure it out and pm me with the winner when it's all settled, please. 
 :cheers:
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: jbell on June 13, 2017, 04:37:35 PM
Incase anyone is looking for L style batteries!!  These are a good deal.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Kastar-Battery-F970-for-Sony-NP-F975-NP-F970-NP-F960-NP-F950/252495976824?_trksid=p2047675.c100005.m1851&_trkparms=aid%3D222007%26algo%3DSIM.MBE%26ao%3D2%26asc%3D41375%26meid%3Ded0b1875a9c8409c919835f455186936%26pid%3D100005%26rk%3D5%26rkt%3D6%26sd%3D262886954168
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: nolamule on June 13, 2017, 11:40:44 PM
Have any run times with these?

Incase anyone is looking for L style batteries!!  These are a good deal.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Kastar-Battery-F970-for-Sony-NP-F975-NP-F970-NP-F960-NP-F950/252495976824?_trksid=p2047675.c100005.m1851&_trkparms=aid%3D222007%26algo%3DSIM.MBE%26ao%3D2%26asc%3D41375%26meid%3Ded0b1875a9c8409c919835f455186936%26pid%3D100005%26rk%3D5%26rkt%3D6%26sd%3D262886954168
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: sos on June 14, 2017, 08:14:36 AM
As far as Ankers go, I'd assume this bundle would work, as well? Includes charger and USB-C to USB-C cable...

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MZ61PRW/ref=psdc_7073960011_t2_B01K6TA748

Yes I believe that should work. Pretty good deal as the cables and charger are worth $35-40.

Confirming. Definitely works!

Very similar dimensions to the 20100 mAh model on the SD approved list, while providing significantly more capacity.

Also, supports USB-C Power Delivery (PD) spec, which (rapid) charges my Google Pixel XL, among other things.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: jbell on June 14, 2017, 05:55:17 PM
Not really, ran one for a show last weekend.   Haven't tested them for runtime length. 

Have any run times with these?

Incase anyone is looking for L style batteries!!  These are a good deal.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Kastar-Battery-F970-for-Sony-NP-F975-NP-F970-NP-F960-NP-F950/252495976824?_trksid=p2047675.c100005.m1851&_trkparms=aid%3D222007%26algo%3DSIM.MBE%26ao%3D2%26asc%3D41375%26meid%3Ded0b1875a9c8409c919835f455186936%26pid%3D100005%26rk%3D5%26rkt%3D6%26sd%3D262886954168
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: BonoBeats on June 14, 2017, 08:57:08 PM
Used this battery for Dead & Co on Saturday. No USBc ports, so had to use the supplied cable in two USBa ports (one USBa port gave the orange power signal).

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01JIWQPMW/ref=yo_ii_img?ie=UTF8&psc=1

The MixPre6 was VERY hot to the touch at the end of the show. Too much power? Or do I just need better ventilation inside the bag? It was running for about five hours consecutively...
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: b_curl on June 15, 2017, 04:12:36 PM
http://www.pinknoise-systems.co.uk/ have made some 4 pin regulated Hirose power adapter prototypes that they say should be up for sale in a few weeks. 


Found on the SD MP3/6 FB forum.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: nolamule on June 15, 2017, 04:51:49 PM
http://www.pinknoise-systems.co.uk/ have made some 4 pin regulated Hirose power adapter prototypes that they say should be up for sale in a few weeks. 


Found on the SD MP3/6 FB forum.

That is exactly what I want!!!
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: jbell on June 15, 2017, 04:58:26 PM
Can you still have the AA batteries in the sled as back ups?? 

http://www.pinknoise-systems.co.uk/ have made some 4 pin regulated Hirose power adapter prototypes that they say should be up for sale in a few weeks. 


Found on the SD MP3/6 FB forum.

That is exactly what I want!!!
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: b_curl on June 15, 2017, 05:38:09 PM
From FB:

"We tried but we had to fill it with a dummy solution and regulators"
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: rigpimp on June 16, 2017, 12:00:03 AM
http://www.pinknoise-systems.co.uk/ have made some 4 pin regulated Hirose power adapter prototypes that they say should be up for sale in a few weeks. 


Found on the SD MP3/6 FB forum.

These were posted to the Facebook user page too.  Curious to see how much they cost. 

For those with Naztech 15000 it works just fine with the right angle usb-a to usb-c cable Ted posted.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: b_curl on June 16, 2017, 08:59:12 AM
£139. They're mods so they're having to purchase the existing 4bays I think.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: dactylus on June 16, 2017, 09:26:02 AM
http://www.pinknoise-systems.co.uk/ have made some 4 pin regulated Hirose power adapter prototypes that they say should be up for sale in a few weeks. 


Found on the SD MP3/6 FB forum.

That is exactly what I want!!!


This is what you want.   ;) 

Hirose to L-mount adapter for use with the optional MX-LMount battery sled.

See http://www.hawkwoods.co.uk/Prods/Product/LR-06.


I purchased mine for $99 from Manios Digital & Film located in California, USA

http://www.hawkwoods.co.uk/Prods/Product/LR-06

https://maniosdigital.com/

Speak with Chris Lobos - Chris quoted me a price of $99 for the Hawk-Woods LR-06 - This product is on the approved Sound Devices powering list.  I ordered mine last week from Chris.  Should be here in two weeks.  I'm sure that they ordered more than one of these from Hawk-Woods.

Chris Lobos
Sales & Customer Service
+1-818-760-8290


Hirose to L-mount adapter for use with the optional MX-LMount battery sled.

See http://www.hawkwoods.co.uk/Prods/Product/LR-06.

Hirose 4-pin (male) - Sony NPF Dummy (45cm) 8V Regulated

The LR-06 is a dummy battery which allows the user to use a higher capacity external power source for greatly extended run times. Ideal when powering cameras such as NEX-FS700, PMW-EX1 & PMW-EX3.

45cm Length
8V regulated
Hirose 4 pin Male
Mini DV (NPF/L-Series) Dummy Battery



Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: johnw on June 16, 2017, 10:35:31 AM
Please post some photos when you get it. I suspect that this with the L mount sled and a small Lmount battery wouldn't stick out much further or take up more room than the 8x AA sled. Having a small L mount battery (like the Sound Devices XL-B2) would allow you to hot swap batteries connected by Hirose without interruption.

(https://www.sounddevices.com/images/products/MX-LMount-SmallTransparentBats-800pxwide.png)

I'm assuming this is a photo of the XL-B2 in the sled here
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: nolamule on June 16, 2017, 10:36:59 AM
This is a much more expensive option; your looking at $200 for the sled, dummy, and hirose > external adapter cable. I agree this is a better option because then you can use a small L series battery as backup (https://www.amazon.com/Sony-NP-F570-InfoLithium-Battery-DCRVX2100/dp/B0002Y5WVQ), hot swap externals, and of course the dummy is on the approved list. Did the $99 for the dummy battery include shipping?


This is what you want.   ;) 

Hirose to L-mount adapter for use with the optional MX-LMount battery sled.

See http://www.hawkwoods.co.uk/Prods/Product/LR-06.


I purchased mine for $99 from Manios Digital & Film located in California, USA

http://www.hawkwoods.co.uk/Prods/Product/LR-06

https://maniosdigital.com/

Speak with Chris Lobos - Chris quoted me a price of $99 for the Hawk-Woods LR-06 - This product is on the approved Sound Devices powering list.  I ordered mine last week from Chris.  Should be here in two weeks.  I'm sure that they ordered more than one of these from Hawk-Woods.

Chris Lobos
Sales & Customer Service
+1-818-760-8290


Hirose to L-mount adapter for use with the optional MX-LMount battery sled.

See http://www.hawkwoods.co.uk/Prods/Product/LR-06.

Hirose 4-pin (male) - Sony NPF Dummy (45cm) 8V Regulated

The LR-06 is a dummy battery which allows the user to use a higher capacity external power source for greatly extended run times. Ideal when powering cameras such as NEX-FS700, PMW-EX1 & PMW-EX3.

45cm Length
8V regulated
Hirose 4 pin Male
Mini DV (NPF/L-Series) Dummy Battery
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: dactylus on June 16, 2017, 10:41:39 AM
Please post some photos when you get it. I suspect that this with the L mount sled and a small Lmount battery wouldn't stick out much further or take up more room than the 8x AA sled. Having a small L mount battery (like the Sound Devices XL-B2) would allow you to hot swap batteries connected by Hirose without interruption.


I will post photos once I receive the LR-06.

Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: dactylus on June 16, 2017, 10:51:06 AM
This is a much more expensive option; your looking at $200 for the sled, dummy, and hirose > external adapter cable. I agree this is a better option because then you can use a small L series battery as backup (https://www.amazon.com/Sony-NP-F570-InfoLithium-Battery-DCRVX2100/dp/B0002Y5WVQ), hot swap externals, and of course the dummy is on the approved list. Did the $99 for the dummy battery include shipping?

See http://www.hawkwoods.co.uk/Prods/Product/LR-06.


^
I already have the L-mount sled.  I don't know if the LR-06 $99 quote included shipping.


£139. They're mods so they're having to purchase the existing 4bays I think.
http://www.pinknoise-systems.co.uk/ have made some 4 pin regulated Hirose power adapter prototypes that they say should be up for sale in a few weeks. 

^
The similar option mentioned by b_curl runs $177 US dollars if the price is £139.

Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: noahbickart on June 16, 2017, 11:27:59 AM
what 8v battery would you use with the hirose?
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: nolamule on June 16, 2017, 11:43:52 AM
The Hawk-Woods adapter regulates the incoming voltage to 8V! I like the option better than the USB-C external.

what 8v battery would you use with the hirose?
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: rippleish20 on June 16, 2017, 11:50:49 AM
What does the Hirose connect to in this scenario - a sled with multiple LMount batteries? Could you use a custom cable to 12v battery?
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: dactylus on June 16, 2017, 11:58:16 AM
what 8v battery would you use with the hirose?

I will use a Naztech PB15000
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: dactylus on June 16, 2017, 12:00:42 PM
What does the Hirose connect to in this scenario - a sled with multiple LMount batteries?

See this:  http://www.hawkwoods.co.uk/Prods/Product/LR-06

The Hirose from the LR-06 dummy cell will connect to a Naztech PB15000 battery, Naztech PB15000 battery cable with a female Hirose connector.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: johnw on June 16, 2017, 12:54:30 PM
What does the Hirose connect to in this scenario - a sled with multiple LMount batteries? Could you use a custom cable to 12v battery?

Cable like this. I'd ask tgakidis to make one instead of buying off Amazon though.
https://www.amazon.com/Hirose-Devices-Blackmagic-cinema-camera/dp/B01KK8MY5U/ref=pd_day0_421_3?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B01KK8MY5U&pd_rd_r=VFVF5N3NFS7YPBTR1M7R&pd_rd_w=F40Si&pd_rd_wg=cReVA&psc=1&refRID=VFVF5N3NFS7YPBTR1M7R
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: rippleish20 on June 16, 2017, 01:14:44 PM
What does the Hirose connect to in this scenario - a sled with multiple LMount batteries? Could you use a custom cable to 12v battery?

Cable like this. I'd ask tgakidis to make one instead of buying off Amazon though.
https://www.amazon.com/Hirose-Devices-Blackmagic-cinema-camera/dp/B01KK8MY5U/ref=pd_day0_421_3?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B01KK8MY5U&pd_rd_r=VFVF5N3NFS7YPBTR1M7R&pd_rd_w=F40Si&pd_rd_wg=cReVA&psc=1&refRID=VFVF5N3NFS7YPBTR1M7R


Ah, thanks. I have one already for my F8
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: johnw on June 16, 2017, 01:23:25 PM
What does the Hirose connect to in this scenario - a sled with multiple LMount batteries? Could you use a custom cable to 12v battery?

Cable like this. I'd ask tgakidis to make one instead of buying off Amazon though.
https://www.amazon.com/Hirose-Devices-Blackmagic-cinema-camera/dp/B01KK8MY5U/ref=pd_day0_421_3?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B01KK8MY5U&pd_rd_r=VFVF5N3NFS7YPBTR1M7R&pd_rd_w=F40Si&pd_rd_wg=cReVA&psc=1&refRID=VFVF5N3NFS7YPBTR1M7R


Ah, thanks. I have one already for my F8

Actually, looking at the Hawkwinds product, it may have a male hirose plug on it. You might need a female cable made since I think most of the cables Ted makes are male plugs as well.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: dogmusic on June 16, 2017, 02:08:20 PM
I did a battery test with the Monoprice Executive Series Portable Charger, 15,000 mAh USB-C Power Bank, 5.4A Output

https://www.monoprice.com/product?p_id=16240

Running the MP6 at 24/192, recording only on Channels 1 & 2 (did NOT record the LR MIX tracks), phantom power on both channels, Bluetooth OFF, LCD at 1, LED at 2, plugged into the Monoprice, I got just over 12 hours runtime.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: rigpimp on June 16, 2017, 02:20:42 PM
All of these hirose options regulate to 8.4v so I'm under the impression that you can throw 9v-12v at it and be fine.  12v probably just generates a little more heat.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: rippleish20 on June 16, 2017, 02:27:09 PM
What does the Hirose connect to in this scenario - a sled with multiple LMount batteries? Could you use a custom cable to 12v battery?

Cable like this. I'd ask tgakidis to make one instead of buying off Amazon though.
https://www.amazon.com/Hirose-Devices-Blackmagic-cinema-camera/dp/B01KK8MY5U/ref=pd_day0_421_3?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B01KK8MY5U&pd_rd_r=VFVF5N3NFS7YPBTR1M7R&pd_rd_w=F40Si&pd_rd_wg=cReVA&psc=1&refRID=VFVF5N3NFS7YPBTR1M7R


Ah, thanks. I have one already for my F8

Actually, looking at the Hawkwinds product, it may have a male hirose plug on it. You might need a female cable made since I think most of the cables Ted makes are male plugs as well.

I am more likely to go for the other other company's product, as, with it, you dont need the l battery sled, and it has female hirose... I am set for the moment between battery sleds and USB-c battery so I'll let othere people figure out the details with these products
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: F.O.Bean on June 16, 2017, 07:38:07 PM
I did a battery test with the Monoprice Executive Series Portable Charger, 15,000 mAh USB-C Power Bank, 5.4A Output

https://www.monoprice.com/product?p_id=16240

Running the MP6 at 24/192, recording only on Channels 1 & 2 (did NOT record the LR MIX tracks), phantom power on both channels, Bluetooth OFF, LCD at 1, LED at 2, plugged into the Monoprice, I got just over 12 hours runtime.

Thanks for the info on that! I'll be using the 8xAA or 4xAA Tray's with the USB C power supplies! In have NEVER liked those L-Series Lithium batteries, and I even avoided using them when I had my old SD722! If I do use the L-Series Mount, I'll DEFINITELY be using it with a Dummy Cell like Dactylus posted! That's how I used to power my old SD722 and was my preferred method of powering it!

Also folks, with the Dummy Cell wired correctly, you can even run 7.2v NIMH RC Packs! Obviously not as lightweight as Lithium, but IMO, NIMH is a more reliable and trusted technology! At least it USED to be! That's how I used to run my 722 and I have ALWAYS preferred NIMH technology to Lithium! I realize that USB batteries are just Lithium 18650 batteries, but I feel much safer running those because of the added technology that companies like Anker build into their chargers & USB Batteries! Anker has something called "Multi Protect" which has 10 different kinds of technology & regulators that make sure your devices being powered are as safe as possible!

Also, I got my MP6 yesterday, and ran it through some battery tests! I was using 2 year old Energizer 2,300mah NIMH AA's in my SD 4xAA Battery Tray! I ONLY GOT about 2 HOURS, whether the Bluetooth was on/off, as well as the LR Mix being on/off! I was running 4 channels of my 60v PFA's @24/96 directly into my MP6, which is what I plan to run 99% of the time, so that I can leave my heavy VMS02IB at home more often ;D I'm trying out a 10,000mah HoneyComb brand USB A Battery, with the included SD Dual USB A>C Cable, right now and I'll let yinz know about how long the 10,000mah battery runs!

I already have the Anker PowerCore+ 20,100mah USB C Battery & Anker 60w Powerline C>C Cable with Power Delivery, which should be here anyday! And I am DEF getting a few of those Monoprice USB C batteries linked above! I have some Monoprice USB items and they're a decent enough company IMO! Nowhere near as nice and reliable as an Ankerm IMO, but will still get the job done! Besides, Anker is the best USB company of anyone right now! ;) 8)
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: willndmb on June 16, 2017, 09:34:11 PM
I did a battery test with the Monoprice Executive Series Portable Charger, 15,000 mAh USB-C Power Bank, 5.4A Output

https://www.monoprice.com/product?p_id=16240

Running the MP6 at 24/192, recording only on Channels 1 & 2 (did NOT record the LR MIX tracks), phantom power on both channels, Bluetooth OFF, LCD at 1, LED at 2, plugged into the Monoprice, I got just over 12 hours runtime.
you can't beat the price and even if you did 4 ch plus the mix I bet your still get plenty of time, i.e. Over four hrs
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: F.O.Bean on June 16, 2017, 11:04:48 PM
I did a battery test with the Monoprice Executive Series Portable Charger, 15,000 mAh USB-C Power Bank, 5.4A Output

https://www.monoprice.com/product?p_id=16240

Running the MP6 at 24/192, recording only on Channels 1 & 2 (did NOT record the LR MIX tracks), phantom power on both channels, Bluetooth OFF, LCD at 1, LED at 2, plugged into the Monoprice, I got just over 12 hours runtime.
you can't beat the price and even if you did 4 ch plus the mix I bet your still get plenty of time, i.e. Over four hrs

Exactly! Don't get me wrong, I'm the biggest Anker fan ever [big surprise huh? lol] and already have the approved/recommended Anker PowerCore+ 20,100 USB C battery & Anker 60w PowerLine C>C Cable with Power Delivery, but for the price of those Monoprice ones @$25 or so, I'll definitely be getting a couple of them to try out! I've had some Monoprice products over the last couple of years and they were all pretty good quality, so I'd imagine that these will do a great job for the MP3/6 and be a reliable USB C Battery! So thanks again for the link! I just saved it as a bookmark ;D +T
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: dogmusic on June 17, 2017, 12:06:05 AM
I did a battery test with the Monoprice Executive Series Portable Charger, 15,000 mAh USB-C Power Bank, 5.4A Output

https://www.monoprice.com/product?p_id=16240

Running the MP6 at 24/192, recording only on Channels 1 & 2 (did NOT record the LR MIX tracks), phantom power on both channels, Bluetooth OFF, LCD at 1, LED at 2, plugged into the Monoprice, I got just over 12 hours runtime.
you can't beat the price and even if you did 4 ch plus the mix I bet your still get plenty of time, i.e. Over four hrs

Exactly! Don't get me wrong, I'm the biggest Anker fan ever [big surprise huh? lol] and already have the approved/recommended Anker PowerCore+ 20,100 USB C battery & Anker 60w PowerLine C>C Cable with Power Delivery, but for the price of those Monoprice ones @$25 or so, I'll definitely be getting a couple of them to try out! I've had some Monoprice products over the last couple of years and they were all pretty good quality, so I'd imagine that these will do a great job for the MP3/6 and be a reliable USB C Battery! So thanks again for the link! I just saved it as a bookmark ;D +T

Yeah, great price for you guys down there. More than twice that up here in the Great Frozen North (but a warm summer night tonight!). I managed to score one from an online Canadian dealer at 30% off so it was still worth it. They are light too, so you could carry a couple in your bag.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: tom the taper on June 20, 2017, 07:01:50 PM
I did a battery test with the Monoprice Executive Series Portable Charger, 15,000 mAh USB-C Power Bank, 5.4A Output

https://www.monoprice.com/product?p_id=16240

Running the MP6 at 24/192, recording only on Channels 1 & 2 (did NOT record the LR MIX tracks), phantom power on both channels, Bluetooth OFF, LCD at 1, LED at 2, plugged into the Monoprice, I got just over 12 hours runtime.

Thanks - just ordered 1.  What cable are you using w/ the monoprice?
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: dogmusic on June 20, 2017, 07:10:51 PM
I did a battery test with the Monoprice Executive Series Portable Charger, 15,000 mAh USB-C Power Bank, 5.4A Output

https://www.monoprice.com/product?p_id=16240

Running the MP6 at 24/192, recording only on Channels 1 & 2 (did NOT record the LR MIX tracks), phantom power on both channels, Bluetooth OFF, LCD at 1, LED at 2, plugged into the Monoprice, I got just over 12 hours runtime.

Thanks - just ordered 1.  What cable are you using w/ the monoprice?

I'm using this one:

AmazonBasics USB Type-C to USB Type-C 2.0 Cable - 6 Feet (1.8 Meters) - Black

https://www.amazon.com/AmazonBasics-USB-Type-C-2-0-Cable/dp/B01GGKZ1VA/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1497999887&sr=8-2&keywords=AmazonBasics+USB+Type-C+to+USB+Type-C+2.0+Cable+-+6+Feet+%281.8+Meters%29+-+Black

It's actually too long because it's doing double duty as the connecting cable from the MP6 to an A/C wall charger. But I've ordered a shorter cable. This one:

Fosmon USB-C to USB-C Sync Charge Data Cable

https://www.amazon.com/Fosmon-Charge-Nintendo-Switch-MacBook/dp/B01F9DEORM/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1497973013&sr=8-1&keywords=B01F9DEORM

I think both cables are well reviewed by the USB-C online guru Benson Leung.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: tom the taper on June 20, 2017, 11:03:41 PM
I did a battery test with the Monoprice Executive Series Portable Charger, 15,000 mAh USB-C Power Bank, 5.4A Output

https://www.monoprice.com/product?p_id=16240

Running the MP6 at 24/192, recording only on Channels 1 & 2 (did NOT record the LR MIX tracks), phantom power on both channels, Bluetooth OFF, LCD at 1, LED at 2, plugged into the Monoprice, I got just over 12 hours runtime.

Thanks - just ordered 1.  What cable are you using w/ the monoprice?

I'm using this one:

AmazonBasics USB Type-C to USB Type-C 2.0 Cable - 6 Feet (1.8 Meters) - Black

https://www.amazon.com/AmazonBasics-USB-Type-C-2-0-Cable/dp/B01GGKZ1VA/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1497999887&sr=8-2&keywords=AmazonBasics+USB+Type-C+to+USB+Type-C+2.0+Cable+-+6+Feet+%281.8+Meters%29+-+Black

It's actually too long because it's doing double duty as the connecting cable from the MP6 to an A/C wall charger. But I've ordered a shorter cable. This one:

Fosmon USB-C to USB-C Sync Charge Data Cable

https://www.amazon.com/Fosmon-Charge-Nintendo-Switch-MacBook/dp/B01F9DEORM/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1497973013&sr=8-1&keywords=B01F9DEORM

I think both cables are well reviewed by the USB-C online guru Benson Leung.


thanks a million dogmusic.  I ordered 2  lengths. :coolguy:
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: aaronji on June 21, 2017, 06:30:22 AM
http://www.pinknoise-systems.co.uk/ have made some 4 pin regulated Hirose power adapter prototypes that they say should be up for sale in a few weeks. 


Found on the SD MP3/6 FB forum.

This is now for sale on the Pinknoise site (http://www.pinknoise-systems.co.uk/pinknoise-custom-sd-mix-pre-36-battery-eliminator.html). £165...
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: F.O.Bean on June 21, 2017, 03:49:36 PM
Here's the ONLY cables that I'll use with my MixPre6!

Anker PowerLine 3' 60w C>C Cable with Power Delivery! Worth the $15 IMO 8)
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Anker-PowerLine-USB-C-to-USB-C-3-1-Gen-1-Cable-3ft-with-Power-Delivery/222318438295?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649

Anker PowerLine 6' C>C Cable! (For my Google Pixel phone & MixPre6)
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Anker-PowerLine-USB-C-to-USB-C-2-0-Cable-6ft-for-USB-Type-C-Devices-Includi/192106642525?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: gihl on June 28, 2017, 02:38:01 AM

Hello, nice to meet you.  :)
I recently bought a MixPre-6 and found this forum.
And I want to ask for advice.

I bought a "RAVPower 26800 PD USB-C Charger 26800mAh" with MixPre-6, but RAVPower can not supply power to USB-C devices with a USB-C connection.

[Specification]
-- Micro USB Input: DC 5V/2A
-- Type-C Input: DC 5V/3A,9V/2A,15V/2A,20V/1.5A
-- Type-C Output: DC 5V/3A,9V/2A,15V/2A,20V/1.5A
-- iSmart USB Output: DC 5V/3.4A Total(Each 2.4A Max)
-- https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01LRQDAEI

Anyway, I plugged the "USB-A to Micro USB(And plug the USB-C adapter into the Micro USB connector)" cable into the RAVPower's USB-A port and plugged the other end into the USB-C port of the MixPre-6.
It's not full power, but it works. (Power Status Icon = Orange USB)

I have connected two stereo microphones(battery powered) and RodeLink(mono), and stereo mix and ISO track recording is fine. (stereo mix LR tracks plus 5 isolated tracks).

Is it ok to use this?
I am afraid that MixPre-6 will fail.

The "USB-to-Micro USB" cable and the "Micro USB to USB-C adapter" used the one provided with RAVPower.
Perhaps this is the same product.
-- https://www.amazon.com/RAVPower-Transfer-Charging-ChromeBook-Supported/dp/B071P7GK84


I am sorry that English is poor.  :-[
Thank you for reading.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: dallman on June 29, 2017, 01:46:32 PM

Hello, nice to meet you.  :)
I recently bought a MixPre-6 and found this forum.
And I want to ask for advice.

I bought a "RAVPower 26800 PD USB-C Charger 26800mAh" with MixPre-6, but RAVPower can not supply power to USB-C devices with a USB-C connection.

[Specification]
-- Micro USB Input: DC 5V/2A
-- Type-C Input: DC 5V/3A,9V/2A,15V/2A,20V/1.5A
-- Type-C Output: DC 5V/3A,9V/2A,15V/2A,20V/1.5A
-- iSmart USB Output: DC 5V/3.4A Total(Each 2.4A Max)
-- https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01LRQDAEI

Anyway, I plugged the "USB-A to Micro USB(And plug the USB-C adapter into the Micro USB connector)" cable into the RAVPower's USB-A port and plugged the other end into the USB-C port of the MixPre-6.
It's not full power, but it works. (Power Status Icon = Orange USB)

I have connected two stereo microphones(battery powered) and RodeLink(mono), and stereo mix and ISO track recording is fine. (stereo mix LR tracks plus 5 isolated tracks).

Is it ok to use this?
I am afraid that MixPre-6 will fail.

The "USB-to-Micro USB" cable and the "Micro USB to USB-C adapter" used the one provided with RAVPower.
Perhaps this is the same product.
-- https://www.amazon.com/RAVPower-Transfer-Charging-ChromeBook-Supported/dp/B071P7GK84


I am sorry that English is poor.  :-[
Thank you for reading.

I have the same battery and use the USB C to USB C with no issues at all. It will supply the correct power much like the Anker battery.
Your battery powered mics should be fine, just make sure phantom power (p48) is off.
Your English is fine, good luck!
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: gihl on June 29, 2017, 02:01:38 PM
Thank you for your answers and advice.  :D
After reading this article, I was worried and posted an article.  :o


The MixPre is not looking for 3A. It needs 1.5A at 5V i.e. 7.5W

A USB-C to A cable that has a built-in resistor to allow the MixPre to draw full power from a USB-A power source that can't deliver 7.5W could potentially damage your USB power source or cause the MixPre to not function properly. You use these cables at your own risk. Be sure that your USB-A source can deliver 7.5W (1.5A at 5V)

I will use this connection(Power Status Icon = Orange USB) for a while until I get a replacement.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: dallman on June 29, 2017, 02:51:20 PM
Thank you for your answers and advice.  :D
After reading this article, I was worried and posted an article.  :o


The MixPre is not looking for 3A. It needs 1.5A at 5V i.e. 7.5W

A USB-C to A cable that has a built-in resistor to allow the MixPre to draw full power from a USB-A power source that can't deliver 7.5W could potentially damage your USB power source or cause the MixPre to not function properly. You use these cables at your own risk. Be sure that your USB-A source can deliver 7.5W (1.5A at 5V)

I will use this connection(Power Status Icon = Orange USB) for a while until I get a replacement.
The comments above are not related to USB C to USB C. They are related to the many USB A to USB C cables being sold that do not have the proper resistor. There are within these pages links to USB A to USB C cables that are safe. But that is geared toward the older batteries that do not have any USB C capabilities. The Rav Power battery you have purchased is designed to go USB C to USB C, so if you have the USB C to USB C cable that came with it, you will be fine. Running under the orange color from what I have read (I have no personal experience) means that you can only run 2 channels as it is in safety mode.

Also remember you can email Sound Devices directly. I have done so and I received a response within a day.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: gihl on June 29, 2017, 03:03:52 PM
Yes, I know that the comment is not related to USB-C to USB-C.
I am concerned because I am currently using USB-C(MixPre-6) to USB-A(RAVPower 26800 PD) connection.
(In fact, I used the "USB-A to Micro USB(And plug the USB-C adapter into the Micro USB connector)" cable.)
(And I do not even know if there is a proper resistor on this cable.)
This is because the USB-C port of RAVPower is not working.

Thank you for your comments and advice.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: woodbine on July 05, 2017, 09:44:15 AM
http://www.pinknoise-systems.co.uk/ have made some 4 pin regulated Hirose power adapter prototypes that they say should be up for sale in a few weeks. 


Found on the SD MP3/6 FB forum.

I saw this today. I'm surprised SD haven't come up with a sled that has the Hirose and regulator all built in. Seems a total no brainer. Could even make it with the 8xAA sled and leave space for 4 x AA.....
In fact, anyone can find suitable regulator on ebay, Hirose on ebay, plus some solder skills. What's to lose?
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: rigpimp on July 10, 2017, 10:36:54 AM
Anker PowerCore 26800 Portable Charger $42

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01JIWQPMW

It only has USB-A options but still...

Edit: Use code AKPRIME9 to get it down to $36.99
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: ts on July 12, 2017, 08:51:28 AM
So what is the smallest external solution? My hopes were to run this for at least 5 - 6 hours using the 4 battery sled and Lithium AA's. With my mics I'm only getting 3 1/2 hours. I guess my options are the 8 battery sled or a small external. So far all the externals listed are larger than the deck. I have the 3. Thanks.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: johnw on July 12, 2017, 08:56:15 AM
The 8 aa isn't that big Imo
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: celticrogues on July 13, 2017, 02:06:45 PM
Gotham Sound has released this cable for the MixPre's: Hirose to USB-C with a regulator built in.

https://www.gothamsound.com/product/hirose-usb-c-power-cable

-Mike
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: dpower on July 15, 2017, 12:47:47 PM
Has anyone found a braided / techflex USB-C to USB-C cable that meets the specs for powering a MixPre-6? I ask because I feel a braided cable will wear better over time.

This braided Anker cable claims to support USB Power Delivery but indicates a USB v2.0: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071XYBPMN

This non-braided version (also supporting PD) indicates v3.1: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01EMIIFCU

I gather the USB version isn't relevant for powering a MixPre. But should not any cable supporting Power Delivery do the job here?

Anyone have experience and/or thoughts to share on these options?
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: SPfrei on July 16, 2017, 11:17:23 AM
I have orderer this braided Anker USB-C to USB-C cable. Connects my MixPre-6 with an Anker PowerCore+ 20100 without flaws:

 https://www.amazon.de/gp/product/B01GMZP2I6/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: dactylus on July 19, 2017, 07:34:09 AM
I have orderer this braided Anker USB-C to USB-C cable. Connects my MixPre-6 with an Anker PowerCore+ 20100 without flaws:

 https://www.amazon.de/gp/product/B01GMZP2I6/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

^
Amazon USA link for the Anker Powerline+ C to C 2.0 cable (3ft) braided cable.

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B01GMZP2I6/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o09_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: noahbickart on July 19, 2017, 08:05:54 AM
I have orderer this braided Anker USB-C to USB-C cable. Connects my MixPre-6 with an Anker PowerCore+ 20100 without flaws:

 https://www.amazon.de/gp/product/B01GMZP2I6/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

^
Amazon USA link for the Anker Powerline+ C to C 2.0 cable (3ft) braided cable.

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B01GMZP2I6/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o09_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I use this. While it works no better and no worse than any other usb-c cable, the strain relief is very well implemented.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: ts on July 19, 2017, 09:46:29 AM
Got a little under 5 1/2 hours with Enelop Pro and 8 battery sled. Happy with that. No need for lithiums.

AKG>Naiant Actives>60V PFA>Mix Pre 3. 24/48. Lights down to 1. Basic mode.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: rigpimp on July 23, 2017, 12:23:47 PM
This is the right angle USB-A to USB-C cable I use and it works fine.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06XP5T78F/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: willyp523 on July 25, 2017, 07:44:40 PM
Did a partial runtime test on the Anker Powercore+ 26800 with MixPre 6.  I shut it down after 12 hours and still had 5 of the 10 LED lights lit on the battery.  Used the supplied USB-C cable and ran phantom power to both a pair of Peluso cemc6 and Line Audio CM3 and recorded the mix, for 6 tracks total.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MZ61PRW/ref=psdc_7073960011_t2_B01K6TA748
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: Fried Chicken Boy on July 31, 2017, 12:46:07 PM
The Omnicharge power bank was mentioned earlier in this thread (by johnw, reply #44) but a heads-up that they just announced a version with USB-C.  There's a few things I'm not crazy about with the original Omnicharge, but the company obviously takes care in their development so I imagine their USB-C will be on-spec and well designed. > https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/omnicharge-most-powerful-dual-usb-c-power-bank-smartphone-powerbank#/ (https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/omnicharge-most-powerful-dual-usb-c-power-bank-smartphone-powerbank#/)

PROS:
1. Well-built and outputs clean, accurate power.
2. Price during initial backer's run is $150; street price will be ~$250 after the initial backer's run is over.

CONS:
1. Addition of the two USB-C ports sacrifices the full-size AC output and barrel DC input/output of the original Omnicharge configuration. 
2. Won't be shipping until December 2017 and could be later (mine was ready and shipped nearly 2 months after the projected date).
3. (Personal con) A few less than optimal design and implementation choices that I noted in my observations here. > http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=178998.msg2219228#msg2219228 (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=178998.msg2219228#msg2219228)
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: waltmon on August 01, 2017, 11:54:25 AM
I tried a USB-C 3.1 TO USB-C 3.1 cable for powering MP6 last evening and got zero power. Not sure if anyone else has had this experience.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: dallman on August 01, 2017, 03:53:03 PM
I tried a USB-C 3.1 TO USB-C 3.1 cable for powering MP6 last evening and got zero power. Not sure if anyone else has had this experience.
What battery? I have found a few batteries that take USB C, and all of them have powered the MixPre 6 without issue. It sounds like a bad cable.

FWIW, Here are 3 USB-C batteries I use:
https://www.monoprice.com/product?p_id=16240 (https://www.monoprice.com/product?p_id=16240)
https://www.monoprice.com/product?p_id=15120 (https://www.monoprice.com/product?p_id=15120)
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01LRQDAEI/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01LRQDAEI/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1)
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: dpower on August 02, 2017, 11:55:18 AM
I tried a USB-C 3.1 TO USB-C 3.1 cable for powering MP6 last evening and got zero power. Not sure if anyone else has had this experience.

That's very odd. Any properly-designed USB-C to USB-C cable should do the trick. What brand is your cable?
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: mitchellm on August 02, 2017, 11:56:35 AM
Who is the maker of the cable?

I've used Anker 3.1 to 3.1 with great success.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: larrysellers on August 18, 2017, 10:04:22 AM
I can confirm that this angled usb-c works perfectly with my usbpre-3, giving the green power indicator with both of the usb-c batteries I own. There is no wrong way to plug in a usb-c connector, so it is right or left angle.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01MSMOMAR/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/714%2BJO%2B%2BbgL._SL1500_.jpg)
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: jbell on September 05, 2017, 07:55:09 PM
Anyone have a usb c battery that doesn't provide a green battery indicator?  I bought the right angle cable above and with my battery I am not getting full power.  It is a vinsic 20000 power bank.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: rippleish20 on September 05, 2017, 08:09:15 PM
Anyone have a usb c battery that doesn't provide a green battery indicator?  I bought the right angle cable above and with my battery I am not getting full power.  It is a vinsic 20000 power bank.

The USB-c port on that appears to be for input not output.


Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: jbell on September 05, 2017, 08:17:07 PM
^ not the same model I am using!  Mine is for output it provides an orange indicator.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: rippleish20 on September 05, 2017, 10:46:57 PM
^ not the same model I am using!  Mine is for output it provides an orange indicator.

I found the other models. Offhand they should work but some of the reviews on Amazon bother me. I  see some suggestions that other people could not get the USB-c to act as an output, at least with their units.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: larrysellers on September 06, 2017, 07:11:45 AM
I bought one of these Moshi IonSlim for < $20 on eBay (brand new) and with the 4AA sled, I get right around 8 hours. I would guess 5 hours with just the ext. battery. For low-pro, I couldn't imagine a lighter, slimmer battery. Samsung also makes a usb-c battery with a similar rating, which has similar run times. The cable I posted earlier works with all 4 of the usb-c batteries I have tried (Anker, Jackery, Moshi and Samsung).

Moshi: https://www.amazon.com/Moshi-IonSlim-portable-charger-power/dp/B072JVPVC5

Samsung: https://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?A=details&O=&Q=&ap=y&c3api=1876%2C%7Bcreative%7D%2C%7Bkeyword%7D&gclid=Cj0KCQjwub7NBRDJARIsAP7wlT-4ysW612KS41Li9vrkVoghatKvctpOsoh4adMkOMXL_3GXs2DlQK0aAskjEALw_wcB&is=REG&m=Y&sku=1315719
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: dallman on September 06, 2017, 11:55:49 AM
Anyone have a usb c battery that doesn't provide a green battery indicator?  I bought the right angle cable above and with my battery I am not getting full power.  It is a vinsic 20000 power bank.

The USB-c port on that appears to be for input not output.
The picture shows USB micro, not USB "C". This model battery comes in a USB "C" model as well as this one. I have both (although not exactly the same model on close inspection) and the USB "C" model powers the mix pre with no issues.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: rippleish20 on September 06, 2017, 12:36:02 PM
The picture shows USB micro, not USB "C". This model battery comes in a USB "C" model as well as this one. I have both and the USB "C" model powers the mix pre with no issues.

Yes, that was my mistake. The one he has does have USB-c out.


10% of the people on Amazon rate the battery as a 1 out of 5, however, and there is this question:


Question: Why wont it charge from the usb type c as output, its only working as input
Answer: Not enough information to answer the question depends on what you're trying to charge unit could be too small to charge this item or other factors could be part of the problem
By Robert Helms on April 2, 2017
I have come to find out that the power bank unit can't recharge through USB C. It will only recharge through Micro USB. It will give you a double 00 if you try to recharge your bank through USB C .
By The Amazonian on August 11, 2017
Mine has this same issue. I'm trying to charge a Nexus 5x from the USB-C output but it's not working. It only works as an input.
By JTompkins on April 30, 2017
Actually, I just tried something out. I saw that my phone was charging the battery pack so i just rotated the usb connector 180 on my phone and plugged in and then it started to charge the phone. That's weird! Who the heck would want to charge a 20000mah battery using a phone??? Dumb! But it works now, at least.
By JTompkins on April 30, 2017

I admit the question and some of the answers are confusing, but I wonder if there are quality issues such that some people experience issues trying to use the USB-c for output

Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: noahbickart on September 06, 2017, 08:45:07 PM
I continue to have great success with this:

https://www.amazon.com/Anker-PowerCore-Ultra-High-Capacity-Portable/dp/B014ZO46LK/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1504744857&sr=8-4&keywords=anker+usb-c

I run my mixpre either 4 channel (2 x kcy> ipa> mic in on mp6) or 6 channel (2 x Schoeps actives> PFA mic in to 1-4, and naiant littlebox line in to 5/6) with the lights on full. I record from the moment I'm set up until the deck gets turned off when the lights go on after the encore. I've never used more than 25% capacity of the battery, and no longer even run the AA tray at all.

$65 for at least 15 hours of full operation? It's a no brainer to me. Right angle USB - C is plenty secure on both ends.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: dogmusic on September 07, 2017, 09:21:05 AM
and no longer even run the AA tray at all.

When I'm powering from USB, I'd like to ditch the AA tray as well, but I'm worried about dirt and dust getting into the SD card slot.

Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: rigpimp on September 07, 2017, 01:01:19 PM
and no longer even run the AA tray at all.

When I'm powering from USB, I'd like to ditch the AA tray as well, but I'm worried about dirt and dust getting into the SD card slot.

I will let Noah answer for himself but I think that he meant that his machine never uses any of the AA capacity and not that he leaves the tray physically disconnected.  Personally, I would not do that just in case something fails.  I know that silly AA tray saved my ass for a recent Kimock show I recorded.  I turned my machine off during set break and when I powered it back up I guess my 26800 had gone to sleep.  I was lucky I had fresh AA's in, as well as haven't the luck to glance at the battery indicator on the MP6 and see it half gone.  I disconnected the USB cable and reconnected it to wake it up since I did not know that little wheel was a button.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: dogmusic on September 07, 2017, 02:51:18 PM
and no longer even run the AA tray at all.

When I'm powering from USB, I'd like to ditch the AA tray as well, but I'm worried about dirt and dust getting into the SD card slot.

Personally, I would not do that just in case something fails.

That's true. It does provide emergency back-up.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: noahbickart on September 07, 2017, 05:52:31 PM
and no longer even run the AA tray at all.

When I'm powering from USB, I'd like to ditch the AA tray as well, but I'm worried about dirt and dust getting into the SD card slot.

Personally, I would not do that just in case something fails.

That's true. It does provide emergency back-up.

I leave the AA sled attached, but empty, to protect the SD card and allow the recorder to sit well in my bag.

I never turn my machine off (or even stop the recording) during the show, even at setbreak.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: ben_r_ on September 12, 2017, 05:18:14 PM
Is there a thread on what everyone's doing for AC power option? All I can seem to find around the net is the SD MX Charge solution. Surely there is another, less expensive option for power the MixPro-6 from the wall outlet.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: dogmusic on September 12, 2017, 09:54:36 PM
Is there a thread on what everyone's doing for AC power option? All I can seem to find around the net is the SD MX Charge solution. Surely there is another, less expensive option for power the MixPro-6 from the wall outlet.

I've been using this:

https://www.amazon.com/Charger-Samsung-Microsoft-Supported-Devices/dp/B01MFCGR0C/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1505267323&sr=8-1-fkmr0&keywords=USB-C+Wall+Charger%2C+Volutz+27W

and this:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01GGKZ1VA/ref=twister_B06W2PMP6C?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

No problems so far.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: larrysellers on September 27, 2017, 01:08:04 PM
I got a couple of there HyperGear batteries for a song and have been using them with great success. Around 7 hours on a single charge and the red/black version can be had for $23 on Amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01KYUDAN4?ref_=pfb_29fjld6id8h4dnhiae7j64kjk55k&tag=hydfbook0e-20&ascsubtag=pfb-P01-V01-O5-T1-HI-4DCJUB&th=1
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: rigpimp on October 04, 2017, 04:07:56 PM
Anyone have any problem using the USB port on a Naztech 15000?  I need a backup for this weekend at Hardly Strictly.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: larrysellers on October 04, 2017, 04:09:35 PM
I can confirm it works but it will give you the low power icon.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: ts on October 20, 2017, 07:05:01 PM
Would any of the smaller Anker batteries work? They seem to be about half the size of the SD recommended one, but all seem to require a usb-a to usb-c cable. I don’t care about getting 20+ hours, just looking for a smaller solution for low pro stuff. 6 - 7 hours would be fine.

https://www.anker.com/products/variant/PowerCore%2B-13400mAh/A1316011

Edit: this battery gives orange power icon with usb a to c cable. Yea, i know. Should have read the whole thread. ::)
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: ts on November 04, 2017, 04:35:05 PM
I got a couple of there HyperGear batteries for a song and have been using them with great success. Around 7 hours on a single charge and the red/black version can be had for $23 on Amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01KYUDAN4?ref_=pfb_29fjld6id8h4dnhiae7j64kjk55k&tag=hydfbook0e-20&ascsubtag=pfb-P01-V01-O5-T1-HI-4DCJUB&th=1

Great battery. Got about 7 1/2 hours. 2 channel. Lights and LED’s down to 1. Nice small size. Using it with a 1 foot cable. Very happy. :yahoo:
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: larrysellers on November 08, 2017, 07:20:56 PM
I got a couple of there HyperGear batteries for a song and have been using them with great success. Around 7 hours on a single charge and the red/black version can be had for $23 on Amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01KYUDAN4?ref_=pfb_29fjld6id8h4dnhiae7j64kjk55k&tag=hydfbook0e-20&ascsubtag=pfb-P01-V01-O5-T1-HI-4DCJUB&th=1

Great battery. Got about 7 1/2 hours. 2 channel. Lights and LED’s down to 1. Nice small size. Using it with a 1 foot cable. Very happy. :yahoo:

Offer $13 and you will most likely get one at the link below.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/332185773381?_trksid=p2055119.m570.l6346&_trkparms=gh1g%3DI332185773381.N101.S1&autorefresh=true
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: Gordon on November 13, 2017, 05:12:22 PM
I got a couple of there HyperGear batteries for a song and have been using them with great success. Around 7 hours on a single charge and the red/black version can be had for $23 on Amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01KYUDAN4?ref_=pfb_29fjld6id8h4dnhiae7j64kjk55k&tag=hydfbook0e-20&ascsubtag=pfb-P01-V01-O5-T1-HI-4DCJUB&th=1

Great battery. Got about 7 1/2 hours. 2 channel. Lights and LED’s down to 1. Nice small size. Using it with a 1 foot cable. Very happy. :yahoo:

Just got one today and love the size!  Got the right angle c > c posted a while back and they show green on the mp6.  I have an Anker PowerCore+ 26800 which is great but it's big, heavy and overkill except for once or twice a year.

Has anyone run 4 channel with these?  Not way for me to really test that at home.  I don't have 2 sets of mics so any 4 channel will be mics on 1&2 and sbd on 3&4.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: larrysellers on November 13, 2017, 05:27:46 PM
I don't think the number of channels really has impact on run time. The recorder, in my experience, uses the same amount of power whether in standby or being utilized to it's full capacity (recording on every available channel plus the mix). Hoping others can chine in with their thoughts/experiences.   
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: Gordon on November 13, 2017, 05:31:03 PM
sounds logical though I could see if running phantom on all it drawing more.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: larrysellers on November 13, 2017, 05:32:54 PM
BTW, my Anker usb-c battery died and was the cause of a failure for me on Saturday. The battery charged as normal and seemed fine before the show. It shorted at some point and wouldn't charge/respond to anything afterwards. Amazon is giving me a credit and told me to recycle it. Not knocking the Anker but I thought it was worth mentioning.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: Fatah Ruark (aka MIKE B) on November 14, 2017, 12:24:07 AM
BTW, my Anker usb-c battery died and was the cause of a failure for me on Saturday. The battery charged as normal and seemed fine before the show. It shorted at some point and wouldn't charge/respond to anything afterwards. Amazon is giving me a credit and told me to recycle it. Not knocking the Anker but I thought it was worth mentioning.

Good to know. Is this the one SD recommended?

Did you have the AA sled running and if so did you end up running the AA's all they way down? More details would be appreciated.

I always have a boat load of AA's as a backup, but they won't cut it for really long sets.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: larrysellers on November 14, 2017, 09:33:55 AM
Yes, it is the one that SD recommend. I was running the AA batteries but had the recording ready (powered on) about 30 minutes before the band came on. I got a little less than 45 minutes of the main set, which tells me the Anker never turned on, even after I pushed the button. My cable works fine with other usb-c batteries and the recorder has no issues running off other external batteries...the Anker just seems to be bricked.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: fanofjam on November 14, 2017, 10:38:27 AM
I was holding off posting until I got everything sorted out but I also had an Anker battery failure and unfortunately it damaged my Mixpre3.  The battery was a new Anker Powercore 20100mah (not the plus model) connected via the dual usba > usbc cable.  What's strange is that I'd already used the battery three or four times prior to this...but after the failure I did realize that the battery had been  a bit funny...one time I used the battery to record with and then after the show when I tried to use the battery to play the recording back it was dead...even though I'd just recorded an entire show with it with no indications that the battery was even low.  Anyway on the day of the failure, I was in my car the day after I'd taped and was attempting to play the recording back through the aux jack on the cars stereo system.  Powered from this battery, the mixpre started up fine but a short time later the battery started smoking. Of course I quickly unplugged everything.  The battery was obviously shot after that but I didn't have a means to check the mixpre3 until I got home.  Sure enough when I got home I discovered that it was damaged. 

The battery short took out the usbc port and the green-yellow-red lights around the fader knobs.  Otherwise the unit still works fine from the rear power terminals.  This happened last week so I haven't yet contacted either Anker or Sound Devices.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: larrysellers on November 14, 2017, 10:44:59 AM
No fireworks with mine. Sorry to here about this.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: GDfan on November 14, 2017, 08:03:35 PM
I was holding off posting until I got everything sorted out but I also had an Anker battery failure and unfortunately it damaged my Mixpre3.  The battery was a new Anker Powercore 20100mah (not the plus model) connected via the dual usba > usbc cable.  What's strange is that I'd already used the battery three or four times prior to this...but after the failure I did realize that the battery had been  a bit funny...one time I used the battery to record with and then after the show when I tried to use the battery to play the recording back it was dead...even though I'd just recorded an entire show with it with no indications that the battery was even low.  Anyway on the day of the failure, I was in my car the day after I'd taped and was attempting to play the recording back through the aux jack on the cars stereo system.  Powered from this battery, the mixpre started up fine but a short time later the battery started smoking. Of course I quickly unplugged everything.  The battery was obviously shot after that but I didn't have a means to check the mixpre3 until I got home.  Sure enough when I got home I discovered that it was damaged. 

The battery short took out the usbc port and the green-yellow-red lights around the fader knobs.  Otherwise the unit still works fine from the rear power terminals.  This happened last week so I haven't yet contacted either Anker or Sound Devices.

Ouch sorry to hear that.
Question, did you have both usb-a connections coming out of the one battery?
If so, I think the may have been the issue as it was drawing too much from the battery. The dual usb-a to usb-c cable is designed for 2 separate batteries.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: fanofjam on November 14, 2017, 10:29:23 PM
I was holding off posting until I got everything sorted out but I also had an Anker battery failure and unfortunately it damaged my Mixpre3.  The battery was a new Anker Powercore 20100mah (not the plus model) connected via the dual usba > usbc cable.  What's strange is that I'd already used the battery three or four times prior to this...but after the failure I did realize that the battery had been  a bit funny...one time I used the battery to record with and then after the show when I tried to use the battery to play the recording back it was dead...even though I'd just recorded an entire show with it with no indications that the battery was even low.  Anyway on the day of the failure, I was in my car the day after I'd taped and was attempting to play the recording back through the aux jack on the cars stereo system.  Powered from this battery, the mixpre started up fine but a short time later the battery started smoking. Of course I quickly unplugged everything.  The battery was obviously shot after that but I didn't have a means to check the mixpre3 until I got home.  Sure enough when I got home I discovered that it was damaged. 

The battery short took out the usbc port and the green-yellow-red lights around the fader knobs.  Otherwise the unit still works fine from the rear power terminals.  This happened last week so I haven't yet contacted either Anker or Sound Devices.

Ouch sorry to hear that.
Question, did you have both usb-a connections coming out of the one battery?
If so, I think the may have been the issue as it was drawing too much from the battery. The dual usb-a to usb-c cable is designed for 2 separate batteries.

The first few pages of this thread discuss where people use the dual usba cable from a single battery and this Anker Powercore was the subject of the discussion.  In fact the focus of the discussion was whether or not the usba Powercore could provide sufficient amperage to power the mixpre.  Also it was specifically stated that both usba connectors needed to be connected to the same battery.  I'm curious where you got info that they needed to be two separate batteries.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: Gordon on November 15, 2017, 09:02:34 AM
I got a couple of there HyperGear batteries for a song and have been using them with great success. Around 7 hours on a single charge and the red/black version can be had for $23 on Amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01KYUDAN4?ref_=pfb_29fjld6id8h4dnhiae7j64kjk55k&tag=hydfbook0e-20&ascsubtag=pfb-P01-V01-O5-T1-HI-4DCJUB&th=1

Great battery. Got about 7 1/2 hours. 2 channel. Lights and LED’s down to 1. Nice small size. Using it with a 1 foot cable. Very happy. :yahoo:

Just got one today and love the size!  Got the right angle c > c posted a while back and they show green on the mp6.  I have an Anker PowerCore+ 26800 which is great but it's big, heavy and overkill except for once or twice a year.

Has anyone run 4 channel with these?  Not way for me to really test that at home.  I don't have 2 sets of mics so any 4 channel will be mics on 1&2 and sbd on 3&4.


Ran some test with this yesterday recording the stereo in my office.  2 channel phantom, bluetooth off, lights on 3.  I got 8 hrs and 50 minutes!

I did have an issue though.  I have the 4 sled AA in as backup.  When the usb battery died it did not automatically switch to the AA's.  I did not see it happen but when I came back in to check the mp6 had an error on the screen that said "stream access error".  Behind that there was another error about usb but I couldn't see what it said.  I should have taken a picture.  I charged the usb battery overnight and this morning if I pull the cable out it switches to AA just like it should.  So not sure what happened or why.  Card is a 32gb SD branded card and was far from full.


edit:  testing again to see if it does it again.  should know in about 7 hours........
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: fanofjam on November 15, 2017, 10:51:11 AM
I got a couple of there HyperGear batteries for a song and have been using them with great success. Around 7 hours on a single charge and the red/black version can be had for $23 on Amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01KYUDAN4?ref_=pfb_29fjld6id8h4dnhiae7j64kjk55k&tag=hydfbook0e-20&ascsubtag=pfb-P01-V01-O5-T1-HI-4DCJUB&th=1

Great battery. Got about 7 1/2 hours. 2 channel. Lights and LED’s down to 1. Nice small size. Using it with a 1 foot cable. Very happy. :yahoo:

Just got one today and love the size!  Got the right angle c > c posted a while back and they show green on the mp6.  I have an Anker PowerCore+ 26800 which is great but it's big, heavy and overkill except for once or twice a year.

Has anyone run 4 channel with these?  Not way for me to really test that at home.  I don't have 2 sets of mics so any 4 channel will be mics on 1&2 and sbd on 3&4.


Ran some test with this yesterday recording the stereo in my office.  2 channel phantom, bluetooth off, lights on 3.  I got 8 hrs and 50 minutes!

I did have an issue though.  I have the 4 sled AA in as backup.  When the usb battery died it did not automatically switch to the AA's.  I did not see it happen but when I came back in to check the mp6 had an error on the screen that said "stream access error".  Behind that there was another error about usb but I couldn't see what it said.  I should have taken a picture.  I charged the usb battery overnight and this morning if I pull the cable out it switches to AA just like it should.  So not sure what happened or why.  Card is a 32gb SD branded card and was far from full.


edit:  testing again to see if it does it again.  should know in about 7 hours........

You might want to also take a look at the sd card and verify that the whole file was written properly.  That error message seems ominous.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: Gordon on November 15, 2017, 11:19:09 AM
it did.  I transferred it to my pc and looked at them.  of course the wave just ends when the battery died but it's there and intact.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: rippleish20 on November 15, 2017, 11:34:42 AM
I was holding off posting until I got everything sorted out but I also had an Anker battery failure and unfortunately it damaged my Mixpre3.  The battery was a new Anker Powercore 20100mah (not the plus model) connected via the dual usba > usbc cable.  What's strange is that I'd already used the battery three or four times prior to this...but after the failure I did realize that the battery had been  a bit funny...one time I used the battery to record with and then after the show when I tried to use the battery to play the recording back it was dead...even though I'd just recorded an entire show with it with no indications that the battery was even low.  Anyway on the day of the failure, I was in my car the day after I'd taped and was attempting to play the recording back through the aux jack on the cars stereo system.  Powered from this battery, the mixpre started up fine but a short time later the battery started smoking. Of course I quickly unplugged everything.  The battery was obviously shot after that but I didn't have a means to check the mixpre3 until I got home.  Sure enough when I got home I discovered that it was damaged. 

The battery short took out the usbc port and the green-yellow-red lights around the fader knobs.  Otherwise the unit still works fine from the rear power terminals.  This happened last week so I haven't yet contacted either Anker or Sound Devices.

That sucks. I'm surprised it damaged the mixpre.

 
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: Gordon on November 15, 2017, 05:06:33 PM
I got a couple of there HyperGear batteries for a song and have been using them with great success. Around 7 hours on a single charge and the red/black version can be had for $23 on Amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01KYUDAN4?ref_=pfb_29fjld6id8h4dnhiae7j64kjk55k&tag=hydfbook0e-20&ascsubtag=pfb-P01-V01-O5-T1-HI-4DCJUB&th=1

Great battery. Got about 7 1/2 hours. 2 channel. Lights and LED’s down to 1. Nice small size. Using it with a 1 foot cable. Very happy. :yahoo:

Just got one today and love the size!  Got the right angle c > c posted a while back and they show green on the mp6.  I have an Anker PowerCore+ 26800 which is great but it's big, heavy and overkill except for once or twice a year.

Has anyone run 4 channel with these?  Not way for me to really test that at home.  I don't have 2 sets of mics so any 4 channel will be mics on 1&2 and sbd on 3&4.


Ran some test with this yesterday recording the stereo in my office.  2 channel phantom, bluetooth off, lights on 3.  I got 8 hrs and 50 minutes!

I did have an issue though.  I have the 4 sled AA in as backup.  When the usb battery died it did not automatically switch to the AA's.  I did not see it happen but when I came back in to check the mp6 had an error on the screen that said "stream access error".  Behind that there was another error about usb but I couldn't see what it said.  I should have taken a picture.  I charged the usb battery overnight and this morning if I pull the cable out it switches to AA just like it should.  So not sure what happened or why.  Card is a 32gb SD branded card and was far from full.


edit:  testing again to see if it does it again.  should know in about 7 hours........


Tested again and this time I was sitting here when it happened.  Seems when the battery starts to get really low (1 bar) but not dead the power requirement is not enough to power the mixpre.  The two errors are as follows:

USB Power Source is not compliant
Use battery power instead?

OK   Quit

before I could hit ok I got this:

SD Warning
Stream access Error
       OK

When I hit ok it goes back to the usb error, hitting ok does not switch to battery as the stream error comes up again.  Then it shut off.

This happened at 8 hr's and 46 minutes and the bar on the battery at one which indicates less than 25% power remaining.  So again it seems that when the battery was super low it couldn't provide enough wattage.  That makes sense but not sure why that kicks up the "Stream access error".

Wave file wrote correctly till it cut off at the end.  The very end it "flat lines" as the battery power drained.  Battery light was green the entire time.

If this isn't going to cause problems I'm fine using it and just remembering to never push it past 8 hr's which I never need anyway.


I have not tested my Anker PowerCore+ 26800 to see if the same thing happens when it gets too low.  I plan to tomorrow.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: larrysellers on November 15, 2017, 05:33:50 PM
This is good information. Thanks for sharing Gordon.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: Gordon on November 15, 2017, 05:44:17 PM
This is good information. Thanks for sharing Gordon.

Have you tested yours?  wondering if the same thing happens to others.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: larrysellers on November 15, 2017, 05:54:37 PM
Running it now.

This is good information. Thanks for sharing Gordon.

Have you tested yours?  wondering if the same thing happens to others.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: Gordon on November 15, 2017, 06:57:03 PM
Thanks! I got the Anker running now as well.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: ts on November 15, 2017, 07:24:21 PM
I got a couple of there HyperGear batteries for a song and have been using them with great success. Around 7 hours on a single charge and the red/black version can be had for $23 on Amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01KYUDAN4?ref_=pfb_29fjld6id8h4dnhiae7j64kjk55k&tag=hydfbook0e-20&ascsubtag=pfb-P01-V01-O5-T1-HI-4DCJUB&th=1

Great battery. Got about 7 1/2 hours. 2 channel. Lights and LED’s down to 1. Nice small size. Using it with a 1 foot cable. Very happy. :yahoo:

Offer $13 and you will most likely get one at the link below.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/332185773381?_trksid=p2055119.m570.l6346&_trkparms=gh1g%3DI332185773381.N101.S1&autorefresh=true

Thanks again!
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: Gordon on November 16, 2017, 09:28:47 PM
Running it now.

This is good information. Thanks for sharing Gordon.

Have you tested yours?  wondering if the same thing happens to others.


did your's die gracefully and switch to aa?  or errors like mine?  As you may have seen in the other thread I had my mixpre lock up while testing the ankar last night.  finished the test  today and it didn't lock up and it died gracefully switching to aa.  no idea why the hypergear didn't.  I only need 8+ hours once or twice a year so if it's safe to run for 3-4 hours at most I'm ok with that.  just scares me with all the issues I'm having.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: Gordon on November 18, 2017, 10:43:30 AM
Seems the issue may have been the usb C to C cable I was using.  I was getting a green light and it worked with the Anker (gracefully switched to aa) but I got those same errors twice with it and the hypergear.  Even though it worked once with the Anker I wonder if it was the cause of the lockup I posted about in the main thread.

This is the c to c that many folks are using that may be the root of my errors. 

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01MSMOMAR/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1


Tested twice with a usb C to A cable.  No errors and it gracefully switched to the internal AA when the usb battery died.  Going to test again just to be sure.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: jbell on November 18, 2017, 11:00:11 AM
So if you use the Anker C to C cable that comes with the battery you didn't have the issue??  Thanks for the info

Seems the issue may have been the usb c to c cable I was using.  I was getting a green light and it worked with the Anker (gracefully switched to aa) but I got those same errors twice with it and the hypergear.  Even though it worked once with the Anker I wonder if it was the cause of the lockup I posted about in the main thread.

This is the c to c that many folks are using that may be the root of my errors. 

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01MSMOMAR/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1


Tested twice with a usb c to a cable.  No errors and it gracefully switched to the internal AA when the usb battery died.  Going to test again just to be sure.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: Gordon on November 18, 2017, 11:04:02 AM
No!  using the right angle c to c linked above gave me the errors when it should have switched to AA!  this is with the hypergear battery.  using a usb c to A with the hypergear and it switched to AA as it should with no errors.  tested twice now.

I have not tested with the actual anker cable cause I have to use right angle cable in my bag.

This all goes against what others are saying about using usb c to A.  This thread led me to seek out a c to c since that is what is recommended.  my experience is the opposite.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: jbell on November 18, 2017, 11:06:08 AM
Does this happen with the Anker battery as well?? 

No!  using the right angle c to c linked above gave me the errors when it should have switched to AA!  this is with the hypergear battery.  using a usb c to a with the hypergear and it switched to AA as it should with no errors.  tested twice now.

I have not tested with the actual anker cable cause I have to use right angle cable in my bag.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: Gordon on November 18, 2017, 11:09:11 AM
Does this happen with the Anker battery as well?? 

No!  using the right angle c to c linked above gave me the errors when it should have switched to AA!  this is with the hypergear battery.  using a usb c to a with the hypergear and it switched to AA as it should with no errors.  tested twice now.

I have not tested with the actual anker cable cause I have to use right angle cable in my bag.

See my other issues with the Anker!  I was testing to see if it did the same thing (errors) when the mixpre locked up the other night!  I finished testing yesterday and no lockups and it switched to AA as it should.  Still makes me leery to use that cable.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: jbell on November 18, 2017, 11:25:55 AM
Guess I'll stick with my L mount batteries!
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: jnorman34 on November 19, 2017, 08:18:12 PM
I have an anker unit, but it’s heavy, bulky, and awkward with the usb cable so I might like to switch to L batteries.  I considered two of the 570 batteries but looked at mah ratings - the 570s are only 2300mah each, so two would give me 4600mah.  From what I read, alkaline batteries can give 2500mah each, or 10000mah total.  That just doesn’t seem right?  How long will the mixpre6 run four mics with phantom power on 4 alkalines vs two 570 L batteries?  Thanks.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: Gordon on November 28, 2017, 08:14:40 AM
Seems the issue may have been the usb C to C cable I was using.  I was getting a green light and it worked with the Anker (gracefully switched to aa) but I got those same errors twice with it and the hypergear.  Even though it worked once with the Anker I wonder if it was the cause of the lockup I posted about in the main thread.

This is the c to c that many folks are using that may be the root of my errors. 

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01MSMOMAR/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1


Tested twice with a usb C to A cable.  No errors and it gracefully switched to the internal AA when the usb battery died.  Going to test again just to be sure.

I've now tested multiple times with both the hypergear and the anker and it does seem it was the c to c cable causing my issues.  with a usb a to c they both switch gracefully to AA when they die.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: junkyardt on June 23, 2018, 02:42:55 PM
As far as the Anker products go with regard to powering the MixPre 3 or 6, there are several options available. I've read through all 12 pages of this thread, but I was hoping someone could clarify which ones work best with the MixPre series.

First you've got the two non-plus models, the regular 20100, $45.99, here:

https://www.amazon.com/Portable-Charger-Anker-PowerCore-20100mAh/dp/B00X5RV14Y/

and the regular 26800, $61.99, here:

https://www.amazon.com/Anker-PowerCore-Portable-Double-Speed-Recharging/dp/B01JIWQPMW/

My understanding is to stay away from these because they do not use USB-C to USB-C, correct?



Then you've got the plus models, starting with the 20100+, $65.99, here:

https://www.amazon.com/Anker-PowerCore-Ultra-High-Capacity-Portable/dp/B014ZO46LK/

I believe this link above (the $65.99 one) is the only one officially endorsed by Sound Devices?



Then you've got, confusingly, 3 variants of the 26800+, starting with this one, $69.99, here:

https://www.amazon.com/Anker-PowerCore-Portable-Ultra-High-Capacity-Recharges/dp/B01N3TVRP2/

and this one, $86.99, here:

https://www.amazon.com/Anker-PowerCore-Portable-Capacity-PowerPort/dp/B01K6TA748/

and finally a "Power Delivery" or PD version, $119.99, here:

https://www.amazon.com/Anker-PowerCore-Delivery-Charger-Portable/dp/B01MZ61PRW/

I gather from this thread that the two models people are using with their MixPres are the 20100+ ($65.99) and the 26800+ PD ($119.99)? I was mainly wondering if the other two (cheaper) variants of the 26800+ should be avoided for some reason? Those variants refer to some unspecified "included cable" but they don't specify that it's a USB-C to USB-C cable the way the $119.99 variant does.

Also, I was wondering, between the 20100+ and the 26800+ PD, if there's any way to tell about how much more runtime one might get by spending the extra $54 on the 26800+ (mainly to determine if that extra runtime is going be way beyond my needs and thus, a waste of $). Sound Devices has a handy chart comparing runtimes with various types of AAs, but they don't say anything about USB batteries (and in fact no variants of the 26800+ are even endorsed by them anyway). Any guidance would be appreciated!
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: rigpimp on June 23, 2018, 03:26:21 PM
I bought this:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01N3TVRP2/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

and this:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/3FT-Right-Angle-Micro-USB-or-USB-C-to-Left-Angle-USB-2-0-Charger-Sync-Data-Cable/162327537413?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&var=461341515784&_trksid=p2060353.m1438.l2649

I have never had a lick of problems outside of user error.

When using an Anker external battery connected to USB-C I found that [maybe only on an older fw] if you shut down during set break to make sure the recorder "sees your battery" when you turn the deck back on.  Sometimes those Ankers go to sleep and you have to push the wheel button to wake them up.  It is an old habit from days of short battery life.  My fix was to turn everything on and just let it run all night. 
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: Fatah Ruark (aka MIKE B) on June 23, 2018, 04:04:37 PM
Has anyone found a small battery option for semi-stealth operation?

The "official" battery is a little larger than I'd like and also for mine the USB-C connection isn't the greatest for pocket use.

Ideally I'm looking for something in the 5000-1000mAh range. USB-C connection with enough power for 2 phantom power mics.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: larrysellers on June 23, 2018, 04:52:19 PM
The moshi is what you want for stealth.

I bought one of these Moshi IonSlim for < $20 on eBay (brand new) and with the 4AA sled, I get right around 8 hours. I would guess 5 hours with just the ext. battery. For low-pro, I couldn't imagine a lighter, slimmer battery. Samsung also makes a usb-c battery with a similar rating, which has similar run times. The cable I posted earlier works with all 4 of the usb-c batteries I have tried (Anker, Jackery, Moshi and Samsung).

Moshi: https://www.amazon.com/Moshi-IonSlim-portable-charger-power/dp/B072JVPVC5

Samsung: https://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?A=details&O=&Q=&ap=y&c3api=1876%2C%7Bcreative%7D%2C%7Bkeyword%7D&gclid=Cj0KCQjwub7NBRDJARIsAP7wlT-4ysW612KS41Li9vrkVoghatKvctpOsoh4adMkOMXL_3GXs2DlQK0aAskjEALw_wcB&is=REG&m=Y&sku=1315719
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: rippleish20 on June 27, 2018, 12:18:02 PM
As far as the Anker products go with regard to powering the MixPre 3 or 6, there are several options available. I've read through all 12 pages of this thread, but I was hoping someone could cla
Any guidance would be appreciated!

I recognize it's likely confusing if you read though the thread but you basic question about what battery you could use comes down to one concern - the choice of cable. 

"In the USB 1.0 and 2.0 specs, a standard downstream port is capable of delivering up to 500mA (0.5A); with USB 3.0, it moves up to 0.9A. The charging downstream and dedicated charging ports provide up to  1.5A. USB 3.1 bumps throughput to  ... It also supports power draw of 1.5A and 3A over the 5V bus."

USB has traditionally only supported up to .9 amps.  The newer standards. with USB-c connectors, offer up to 3A. So what happens when someone builds a USB-A to USB-C cable? The average user could easily connect a device that only expects .9 amps to one that is delivering 3A or the reverse. So the USB cable standards dictates resistors in the cable which limit a USB-A to USB-C cable to .9 amps. This is not enough to power a Mixpre-X (which requires 1.5A) and and its why they give you a USB-C to dual USB-A cable (to get around this issue).

So you can go two ways depending on what your comfort level is. Some of the cables sold on amazon ignore the standards and allow more than .9 amps over a USB-A to USB-C cable - they dont have the resistors. A battery with USB-A output that outputs 1.5+ amps on that port will work with such a cable. If you read through the thread you will find comments about specific cables which ignore the standard and work. SD cant officially recognize this as an alternative as someone could damage their equipment so their power FAQ just says it wont work. Some people have also tried the USB-C to dual USB-A cable, plugging in both USB-A connectors to the same battery using two USB-A ports but this sounds like it can potentially damage your equipment and I wouldn't recommend it.

The second option is to stick with cables that follow the standards. This means that you need to use a USB-C to USB-C cable and a battery that has a USB-C output port offering 1.5A+ (even here some USB-C to USB-C cables, like the one that comes with the Ancor USB-C batteries, have been reported as troublesome, so you may want to avoid them although its not clear what the specific issue is)

Which of the above routes you go dictates which of the batteries would work for you. You may also want to look at the monoprice USB-C batteries as they are inexpensive.





https://www.extremetech.com/computing/115251-how-usb-charging-works-or-how-to-avoid-blowing-up-your-smartphone
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: junkyardt on June 27, 2018, 01:18:48 PM
This means that you need to use a USB-C to USB-C cable and a battery that has a USB-C output port offering 1.5A+ (even here some USB-C to USB-C cables, like the one that comes with the Ancor USB-C batteries, have been reported as troublesome, so you may want to avoid them although its not clear what the specific issue is)


hmm, interesting. I ended up ordering the Anker 26800+ PD version, which comes with a USB-C to USB-C cable. i just figured since I was avoiding the whole USB-A amperage issue, I would be good. i hadn't considered that the included cable might not work. can you be more specific as to how the USB-C to USB-C cables included with Anker batteries have been reported as troublesome? I don't recall seeing that in this thread, though I might have just forgotten the specific post by now.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: junkyardt on June 27, 2018, 01:25:14 PM
The moshi is what you want for stealth.

I bought one of these Moshi IonSlim for < $20 on eBay (brand new) and with the 4AA sled, I get right around 8 hours. I would guess 5 hours with just the ext. battery. For low-pro, I couldn't imagine a lighter, slimmer battery. Samsung also makes a usb-c battery with a similar rating, which has similar run times. The cable I posted earlier works with all 4 of the usb-c batteries I have tried (Anker, Jackery, Moshi and Samsung).

Moshi: https://www.amazon.com/Moshi-IonSlim-portable-charger-power/dp/B072JVPVC5

Samsung: https://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?A=details&O=&Q=&ap=y&c3api=1876%2C%7Bcreative%7D%2C%7Bkeyword%7D&gclid=Cj0KCQjwub7NBRDJARIsAP7wlT-4ysW612KS41Li9vrkVoghatKvctpOsoh4adMkOMXL_3GXs2DlQK0aAskjEALw_wcB&is=REG&m=Y&sku=1315719

fwiw, you posted that Moshi Amazon link nearly 10 months ago, and it's not available through Amazon anymore. it doesn't appear to be widely available on eBay either, though there are a couple listings there.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: rippleish20 on June 27, 2018, 01:56:57 PM
This means that you need to use a USB-C to USB-C cable and a battery that has a USB-C output port offering 1.5A+ (even here some USB-C to USB-C cables, like the one that comes with the Ancor USB-C batteries, have been reported as troublesome, so you may want to avoid them although its not clear what the specific issue is)


hmm, interesting. I ended up ordering the Anker 26800+ PD version, which comes with a USB-C to USB-C cable. i just figured since I was avoiding the whole USB-A amperage issue, I would be good. i hadn't considered that the included cable might not work. can you be more specific as to how the USB-C to USB-C cables included with Anker batteries have been reported as troublesome? I don't recall seeing that in this thread, though I might have just forgotten the specific post by now.


I've encountered a couple of comments indicating issues with the included USB-C to USB-C cable but there are several threads where people talk about mixpre-x's and batteries other than this one as well as the FB group and a quick search turns up nothing. I used the included cable a couple of times without issue...
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: junkyardt on July 02, 2018, 07:07:13 PM
i tested how long my new Anker 26800+ PD would run the Mixpre-6. set it up with LED and LCD both set at 5, fully charged the battery, turned on the MixPre and just let it sit. no recording, no phantom, nothing. the MixPre was on for just around 20 hours before it shut off (20 hours 3 mins to be exact). presumably phantom powering 4 mics and recording multiple channels would result in reduced runtime, might do another test with a bunch of stuff going on to see how much it reduces it by. regardless, the Anker 26800 clearly provides way more runtime for the MixPre than any taper is reasonably going to need in one go, even if you're doing an all-day fest.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: borjam on July 07, 2018, 04:30:08 AM
Given people's experience with the orange light on the Mix Pre when powering over a USB A cable, I would have to assume that the 7.5W is a typo and it is indeed trying to draw more current than 2.4A. Alternatively, the batteries aren't providing more than 1.2A but that seems less likely
I tried an iPad charger. It can certainly deliver a lot of current, but if you connect a standard USB 2 device it will deliver the standard USB 2 current, no more. Otherwise it might cause problems with some devices.

iPads have some extra circuitry to "milk" those adapters. That same circuitry also allows them to demand extra current from Mac USB 2.0 ports.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: dynamicalories on July 12, 2018, 06:24:22 PM
Can anyone recommend a good USB A > USB C cable? The one that comes with the MixPre-6 is pretty chunky. Would prefer something quality, durable about 1-foot-ish.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: justme on July 23, 2018, 02:31:34 PM
I can verify that this GP 10400mAh pack with USB-C for input and output works great with the mixpre-3.
https://www.reichelt.com/de/en/powerbank-li-ion-10400-mah-usb-c-gp-1c10aa-p217428.html
Notice that the USB-C model is named: 1C10AA <- Get this one

But the supplied USB-C cable is a tiny 15cm long (10 cm effective length) so it might be extremly efficient or totally worthless depending on your setup.
I'm running my from a spare 50cm Thunderbolt 3 cable which is a waste but it works great. :)


There's another model on the market which looks the same but without the USB-C which have a single A in the name 1C10A <-Don't buy that one.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: jbell on July 23, 2018, 04:54:44 PM
Most USB A> USB C cables will not provide proper power for the Mixpre-3/6.  A few people have found a couple that work, but SD doesn't recommend powering the device that way.  You should use a USB C > USB C cable.  This cable works

https://www.amazon.com/CableCreation-Braided-Macbook-Nintendo-Aluminum/dp/B01MSMOMAR/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1532380446&sr=8-7&keywords=usb%2Bc%2Bcable%2Bto%2Busb%2Bc%2Bright%2Bangle&th=1

Can anyone recommend a good USB A > USB C cable? The one that comes with the MixPre-6 is pretty chunky. Would prefer something quality, durable about 1-foot-ish.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: dynamicalories on July 24, 2018, 09:33:29 AM
Most USB A> USB C cables will not provide proper power for the Mixpre-3/6.  A few people have found a couple that work, but SD doesn't recommend powering the device that way.  You should use a USB C > USB C cable.  This cable works

https://www.amazon.com/CableCreation-Braided-Macbook-Nintendo-Aluminum/dp/B01MSMOMAR/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1532380446&sr=8-7&keywords=usb%2Bc%2Bcable%2Bto%2Busb%2Bc%2Bright%2Bangle&th=1

Can anyone recommend a good USB A > USB C cable? The one that comes with the MixPre-6 is pretty chunky. Would prefer something quality, durable about 1-foot-ish.

Can I ask, if SD doesn't recommend powering the device that way, then why to they send you a USB A > USB C cable with it? That's pretty stupid.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: jbell on July 24, 2018, 09:54:53 AM
The one they send is 2 USB A > USB C!  I was referring to a Single USB A > USB C. 

Most USB A> USB C cables will not provide proper power for the Mixpre-3/6.  A few people have found a couple that work, but SD doesn't recommend powering the device that way.  You should use a USB C > USB C cable.  This cable works

https://www.amazon.com/CableCreation-Braided-Macbook-Nintendo-Aluminum/dp/B01MSMOMAR/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1532380446&sr=8-7&keywords=usb%2Bc%2Bcable%2Bto%2Busb%2Bc%2Bright%2Bangle&th=1

Can anyone recommend a good USB A > USB C cable? The one that comes with the MixPre-6 is pretty chunky. Would prefer something quality, durable about 1-foot-ish.

Can I ask, if SD doesn't recommend powering the device that way, then why to they send you a USB A > USB C cable with it? That's pretty stupid.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: dynamicalories on July 24, 2018, 10:05:40 AM
But what's the difference between a 2x USB A > USB C versus a 1x USB A > USB C if you're just powering the unit from a single battery with a USB A output? (I'm not trying to be dense, I really just don't understand!)
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: jbell on July 24, 2018, 10:11:49 AM
You have to use both of the USB A into a battery to get full power on the Mixpre-6.  Only using one will not power the deck properly and you won't get a green battery light.  Make sense??

But what's the difference between a 2x USB A > USB C versus a 1x USB A > USB C if you're just powering the unit from a single battery with a USB A output? (I'm not trying to be dense, I really just don't understand!)
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: dynamicalories on July 24, 2018, 10:25:03 AM
Gotcha! thanks.

I was using just one of the ends into a battery last week and was getting a green light, but now that I know I can plug in both to my battery that's cool.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: jbell on July 24, 2018, 10:29:00 AM
What battery??  I don't use the stock cable because it is so bulky, but my usb a batteries would only yield an orange light.

Gotcha! thanks.

I was using just one of the ends into a battery last week and was getting a green light, but now that I know I can plug in both to my battery that's cool.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: dynamicalories on July 24, 2018, 10:34:17 AM
This one: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B016BJCRUO/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

However, I only had 2 channels armed. Maybe that's why it showed up green?
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: jbell on July 24, 2018, 10:42:22 AM
I don't think that matters!!  You might be able to buy a cheap USB a > USB c and get it to work without having to use the SD cable.

This one: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B016BJCRUO/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

However, I only had 2 channels armed. Maybe that's why it showed up green?
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: rippleish20 on July 24, 2018, 12:09:40 PM
SD must get a hundred emails a day about this topic as it sure creates a lot of confusion...


The USB 2 standard allowed for USB ports to output a maximum of .9 amps. For a long time, this was the maximum USB devices would expect or deliver. Some vendors - ie Apple - created  custom scenarios (like USB-A to lightning connector) that provided more than .9 amps and there were specialized variations  like USB Power Delivery for charges, but .9 amps was the standard. With the USB 3.x standards, the standard was raised up to 3Amps. The problem is that you don't want users to plug in old devices to newer batteries or power supplies and have them blow up/cause a fire, etc. So standards were developed for cables to prevent this. By the specifications, a USB-a (USB 2) to USB-C (USB 3) cable is supposed to have pull up resistors which limit the amperage to - you guessed it - .9 amps. The Mixpre-3/6 wants 1.5 amps (5 volts x 1.5 amps = 7.5 watts). This is why SD's power FAQ says:

NOTE: A USB-A power source used in conjunction with a USB-A to USB-C cable cannot deliver the required 7.5W for full power operation.

This is also why they include the y cable. A majority of people have computers with USB-A ports. People buying Mixpre's are going to want to connect them to computers as audio interfaces. Their solution - provide a y cable with two USB-A ends ( 2 x .9 amps = 1.8 amps).
 
A USB-A power source used in conjunction with a USB-A to USB-C cable cannot deliver the required 7.5W for full power operation. Some vendors on ebay and amazon, however, sell USB-A to USB-C cables that don't have the resistors in them. In this thread, some people have identified such cables. If your USB battery supports 1.5+ amps and you use one of these cables, you can get the full 7.5 watts. SD does not officially recognizer this option as it bypasses the standard (the fact that these vendors do this bothered a Google Engineer and he actually went through Amazon vendors at one point and certified whether they were following the standards). There is nothing wrong with using a non standard cable if you know what you are doing. Several people here do because they can use the USB-A batteries they had. Think about this from a vendors point of view, however, and you will realize it's not a good idea.  Some people also use the dual dual USB-A cable and simply plug both USB-A ends into their battery. Based on comments I've seen this is not a good idea at all.

Fully powered versus under=powered Mixpre. The Mixpre does have a low power mode and it can be run with less than 7.5 watts with limitations. The FAQ U linked below explains the limitations. Your battery icon will show a orange meter not a green meter.
 
ps. Can we get a picture of a talentcell running a Mixpre via the dual USB-a cable , with only one USB-A end connected, showing s full green battery indicator? That makes no sense.

   
Sound Devices Power FAQ:

https://www.sounddevices.com/tech-notes/mixpre-3-mixpre-6-powering-options


https://www.extremetech.com/computing/115251-how-usb-charging-works-or-how-to-avoid-blowing-up-your-smartphone


Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: dynamicalories on July 24, 2018, 12:50:25 PM
Maybe I was mistaken about getting a green light with that battery. I'll double check.

From their site, though, it seems like operating in Low Power Mode is fine for my use, which is generally recording 4-channels with 2 phantom powered mics and a board feed. I don't use HDMI or USB A ports at all when recording. I assume there's no harm done to the unit by running in Low Power Mode?

Quote
To fully power the MixPre-3 or MixPre-6 from a USB power source not listed above, you will need BOTH of the following:

    USB-C power source that is compliant with the USB powering specification and is able to output 7.5W
    USB-C cable that incorporates the correct pull-up resistors to identify itself as able to provide 7.5W

If either of these conditions are not met, the MixPre recorder will operate in low power mode: maximum 2x 48v phantom channels, no HDMI, no USB-A. You can still use all of the MixPre’s channels, but only a maximum of 2 can be phantom powered.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: larrysellers on July 24, 2018, 12:51:26 PM
No reason not to use low power mode if it works for you.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: Gordon on July 26, 2018, 03:12:34 PM
if anyone needs a tank for festivals etc I just put one in the yard sale

http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=187313.0
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: Chuck on July 26, 2018, 03:32:12 PM
I get full power (green bar) with this battery:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01KYUDAN4/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

and this cable:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01GMZP2I6/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

with my MixPre-6.

The battery and cable are color coordinated too. :)
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: Gordon on July 26, 2018, 03:41:18 PM
I have the same battery and a white one.  Over 8 hours on each.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: larrysellers on July 26, 2018, 04:03:00 PM
Three white ones for me and they are my go to power for this recorder.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: dynamicalories on July 26, 2018, 09:19:59 PM
That's a pretty compelling battery for $20 compared to the Anker. I'm in for one.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: aaronji on June 19, 2019, 08:22:28 AM
I recently picked up an Anker PowerCore 10000 PD (https://www.anker.com/products/variant/powercore-10000-pd/A1235011) for my MixPre-6. It provides full power to the recorder (green light) and is considerably lighter and more compact than the PowerCore+ 20100 Sound Devices recommends (6.7 ounces, 4.49 x 2.05 x 0.98 in versus 1 lb, 7.24 x 2.44 x 0.94 in, according to Amazon).

I got it the day before Mule in Brussels and didn't have an opportunity to charge it before the show. When I powered up, two of four lights came on, but one of those went out on pretty short order. About midway through the second set, the last light started blinking. During the last track before the encore, I pulled it and the transition to the AA sled was seamless. I've recorded a couple of other shows since and all four lights were still lit at the end, the maximum was probably about 2.5 - 2.75 hours of run-time with two mics on phantom. I am pretty sure it would give me 8 or 9 hours on a full charge.

Now, I need to find those posts where people were recommending right-angle USB-C cables...
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: DavidPuddy on June 19, 2019, 04:09:20 PM
Why risk it though? It not *that* much bigger/heavier to use the 20k or 27k mah batteries, plus you can have all day confidence.

The 26,800 mah batteries are on sale again. Good price with nice quick charger.

https://amzn.to/2XpOYtM
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: aaronji on June 19, 2019, 06:04:46 PM
^ Risk? What risk? I have been running Eneloop Pros in the eight battery sled for nearly two years with no issues. After I saw Sebastian's post (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=189692.msg2298876#msg2298876), I figured a redundant power source might be a good idea. It was clear from the specs on the PowerCore 100000 PD that it would work and it does. I don't think I ever ran the AAs past the halfway point, so I have ample power with the Anker.

As for weight and size, I guess it depends on what *that* means. I almost always go to shows via train, usually with trams, buses and long walks on one end or both, and coupled with a hotel stay. So I need an overnight bag, plus my gear. To me, every pound actually counts and the larger Ankers don't even fit in the battery compartment in my Petrol.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: jerryfreak on June 20, 2019, 12:30:27 AM
was doing a battery test on mixpre (4ch phantom, 96K), it ran for 10 hours on a 20100 mAh Jackery battery (still had 1 out of 4 lights when i pulled it, might have had a little more.

thats more than ive ever recorded in a single day, i think a 10000 mAh would be more than fine for my needs since id always be running a battery sled in case of usb cable issues 
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: jerryfreak on July 15, 2019, 08:25:54 PM
Anker Powercore PD 10000 mAH USB-C battery


EDIT:
has 4 lights to indicate battery level, running mixpre6 with 6 inputs and 4 channels of phantom:
4/4 lights lit: 2 hrs
3/4 lights: ~+1:15
2/4 lights: ~+1:15
1/4 lights: ~+1:00

so a safe 4-4.5 hours with that little guy at max load, prob quite a bit more w/o phantom
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: tim in jersey on August 16, 2019, 06:51:59 AM
Perhaps this has been answered before...

Question regarding the dual Sony L-series sled: does the sled draw equally? Or is it a hot-swap option?

If memory serves from the SLA days wiring batteries In series meant more run-time.


Just trying to figure if rotating batts on li-on chemistry is due diligence....


Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: jerryfreak on August 16, 2019, 10:50:18 AM
i would guess it was designed for hot swap as it would be practically impossible for two indpendent packs to have the same voltage unless they were internally regulated

i cant remember the runtime for the L-batts but i do remember it being very long. long enough that 2 would get you thru a long day

doesnt mean you cant stagger them

all batteries last longer when discharged slowly (i.e parallel), regardless of chemistry


Perhaps this has been answered before...

Question regarding the dual Sony L-series sled: does the sled draw equally? Or is it a hot-swap option?

If memory serves from the SLA days wiring batteries In series meant more run-time.


Just trying to figure if rotating batts on li-on chemistry is due diligence....
Title: DC to USB-C PD power option for MixPre 3/6
Post by: justme on August 18, 2019, 06:13:20 AM
I wanted to explore some of the popular DC to USB-C PD power converters that have begun to appeared this year.

It's a DC voltage to to USB-C PD compliant converter. There are many input connector option for them but I opted for the DC 5.5/2.5 model.
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/32946474518.html
It's recommended input voltage is 20V. And a max input of 22 volt.
Thats a bit annoying as packs of 4 li-ion cells might not be enough and 6 cells are too much. So DIY packs of 5 cells would be needed.

Anyway, I powered it from an external power pack using 4x18650 Li-ion pack with 14,8V output I can charge my Pixel 2 and a lot of other USB-C devices without a problem.
I then hooked it up to my MixPre-6 over USB-C and it booted perfectly. But shortly after warned me that the power source was not enough and wanted to switch to 4xAA-pack.
So I connected the converter to 20V DC power instead and that gave it enough headroom to supply the MixPre-6 with enough USB-C PD to make it happy.

The plastic case comes appart easy using the nails and the internals reveals a Chinese USB-C PD chip:

Manufacturer: Injoinic Corp
Chip: SOC IC--IP6527
http://www.sz-dowell.com/static/upload/ueditor/file/20181218/1545115664843095471.pdf

The chip specs states:
Input operating voltage range: 8.2V to 32V
VIN VIN=12V, VOUT=5V/3A, board end conversion efficiency 96.5%

But this did not appeared to be liked by the MixPre anyway. Or due to the way of the implementation of the chip in the converter.
I'll do some more tests but not using the Mixer as a guinea pig. :)
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: Hypnocracy on November 07, 2019, 01:56:29 PM
Just joined the MixPre 6 gang...a lot of the recommended smaller batteries are no longer available except used-referbs...

What are the current recommendations? I liked the size - capacity of the HyperGear 12,000mah
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: checht on November 07, 2019, 02:06:15 PM
Just joined the MixPre 6 gang...a lot of the recommended smaller batteries are no longer available except used-referbs...

What are the current recommendations? I liked the size - capacity of the HyperGear 12,000mah


I really like Anker's PowerCore 10,000 PD. Super small and light for its capacity.
https://www.anker.com/products/variant/powercore-10000-pd/A1235011
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: Gordon on November 07, 2019, 02:07:27 PM
I liked the size - capacity of the HyperGear 12,000mah

still available on ebay and amazon just way overpriced!  glad I bought 2 when I did....
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: Hypnocracy on November 07, 2019, 02:12:05 PM
Just joined the MixPre 6 gang...a lot of the recommended smaller batteries are no longer available except used-referbs...

What are the current recommendations? I liked the size - capacity of the HyperGear 12,000mah


I really like Anker's PowerCore 10,000 PD. Super small and light for its capacity.
https://www.anker.com/products/variant/powercore-10000-pd/A1235011

Two on Amazon....both used! (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07HBTY3Z2/ref=sr_1_10?camp=217145&creative=399373&creativeASIN=B07HBTY3Z2&ie=UTF8&linkCode=as2&sr=1-10&tag=ianker-20)

Thanks Gordon...
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: So Many Roads on November 07, 2019, 02:13:11 PM
https://www.monoprice.com/product?p_id=15123&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIksPVtObY5QIVLR-tBh3OEAQ4EAQYASABEgJQcvD_BwE  Edit: click on the 10000mAh USB-C size to see the correct battery.

I use the monoprice usb c battery pack; similar to the hypergear. 10k mAh, will run the Mix Pre 6 for 3 hours or so, powering one set of mics plus a board feed. I have two and can hot swap them if one runs low.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: prepschoolalumniblues on November 07, 2019, 02:13:46 PM
Just joined the MixPre 6 gang...a lot of the recommended smaller batteries are no longer available except used-referbs...

What are the current recommendations? I liked the size - capacity of the HyperGear 12,000mah


I really like Anker's PowerCore 10,000 PD. Super small and light for its capacity.
https://www.anker.com/products/variant/powercore-10000-pd/A1235011

I have this PowerCore but initially had a major problem with charging it — I used an Anker USB-C charger and cord and it wouldn’t charge the PowerCore at all in a period spanning over 24 hours. I got a different charger and it worked — totally charged over an afternoon. Surprising given that you would think an all-Anker chain would be fine (and I love their products) but some online research revealed that this was a problem others were noticing. So keep an eye out for that!
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: hoppedup on November 08, 2019, 09:37:51 AM
Just joined the MixPre 6 gang...a lot of the recommended smaller batteries are no longer available except used-referbs...

What are the current recommendations? I liked the size - capacity of the HyperGear 12,000mah

I used this on the very unit you have: https://www.amazon.com/Anker-PowerCore-Ultra-High-Capacity-Portable/dp/B014ZO46LK/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=anker+powercore+usb-c+20100&qid=1573223803&sr=8-1
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: Ronmac on November 08, 2019, 05:30:53 PM
^^^^+1 on this.

I have one of these for my 6ii and the USB-C connection is perfect for full power operation.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: relefunt on January 03, 2020, 06:14:44 PM
Just joined the MixPre 6 gang...a lot of the recommended smaller batteries are no longer available except used-referbs...

What are the current recommendations? I liked the size - capacity of the HyperGear 12,000mah


I really like Anker's PowerCore 10,000 PD. Super small and light for its capacity.
https://www.anker.com/products/variant/powercore-10000-pd/A1235011

Two on Amazon....both used! (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07HBTY3Z2/ref=sr_1_10?camp=217145&creative=399373&creativeASIN=B07HBTY3Z2&ie=UTF8&linkCode=as2&sr=1-10&tag=ianker-20)

Thanks Gordon...

This, I believe, is the new version of the Anker 10,000 PD:

https://www.amazon.com/Anker-PowerCore-10000mAh-Portable-Delivery/dp/B07PXMF52C/ref=dp_ob_title_wld

Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: Popmarter on January 08, 2020, 03:51:12 PM
Did my first test with Mixpre-3 II and Anker PowerCore Powerbank 10.000mah Power Delivery (PD) https://www.coolblue.nl/product/831382/anker-powercore-powerbank-10-000-mah-power-delivery-zwart.html (https://www.coolblue.nl/product/831382/anker-powercore-powerbank-10-000-mah-power-delivery-zwart.html)

- 48khz + 32 floating bit
- 48 V Phantom
- 2 channels Milab VM-44 Links  - powerconsumption 4mA (http://www.milabmic.com/showproduct.asp?id=1128&show=specs (http://www.milabmic.com/showproduct.asp?id=1128&show=specs)

Runtime: 6 hours sharp.

File splits at 4gig.

Anker has 4 small blue lights on the side. When fully charged they are OFF. In use they are all ON and with capacity getting lower the lights drop one by one. The last remaining light flickers ON and OFF.

Happy with these results.

This Anker is small. Has no ON or OFF button, just connect to the mixpre with USB C and switch it on. You can recharge this Anker via the adapter that comes with the mixpre (USB C), so there is no real need to buy an extra one.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: jerryfreak on January 14, 2020, 12:03:36 AM
Just joined the MixPre 6 gang...a lot of the recommended smaller batteries are no longer available except used-referbs...

What are the current recommendations? I liked the size - capacity of the HyperGear 12,000mah


I really like Anker's PowerCore 10,000 PD. Super small and light for its capacity.
https://www.anker.com/products/variant/powercore-10000-pd/A1235011

Two on Amazon....both used! (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07HBTY3Z2/ref=sr_1_10?camp=217145&creative=399373&creativeASIN=B07HBTY3Z2&ie=UTF8&linkCode=as2&sr=1-10&tag=ianker-20)

Thanks Gordon...

This, I believe, is the new version of the Anker 10,000 PD:

https://www.amazon.com/Anker-PowerCore-10000mAh-Portable-Delivery/dp/B07PXMF52C/ref=dp_ob_title_wld

wow those were $30 last week. the price on these batteries jump around so much

heres OG version (higher max output 28W total both outputs) for $25, "amazon renewed" (prob just returns):

https://www.amazon.com/Anker-PowerCore-10000mAh-Portable-Delivery/dp/B07TCS3RPM
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: willndmb on January 20, 2020, 08:22:10 AM
https://www.monoprice.com/product?p_id=15123&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIksPVtObY5QIVLR-tBh3OEAQ4EAQYASABEgJQcvD_BwE  Edit: click on the 10000mAh USB-C size to see the correct battery.

I use the monoprice usb c battery pack; similar to the hypergear. 10k mAh, will run the Mix Pre 6 for 3 hours or so, powering one set of mics plus a board feed. I have two and can hot swap them if one runs low.
do you have a custom cable or what allows for the swap?
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: jerryfreak on January 20, 2020, 08:41:29 AM
semi-off topic, but now that i started using L-series batts on my zoom, i wouldnt hesitate to use them on the mixpre instead of the 8-AA sled. (i really dont consider the 4-AA sled all that useful except for as a backup power source

considering 8-AAs are around 5000 mA at 5V, almost any decent pair of L-series batts in the 2600-3000 mAh range should match or beat them on run time, and they are hot swappable unlike the AAs. and they make some big honkin ones as well, upwards of 10000 mAh, which could easily replace a usb-c battery without the cable fears

we'll be testing a bunch over here: https://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=193221

ill circle back with recs, but i no longer have a mixpre. if anybody has an L-series mount i can pass a pair of known-good batts along to try, in a bit. 
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: morst on January 20, 2020, 04:19:38 PM
hot swappable unlike the AAs
AA's can be hot-swapped while running IF YOU DARE TO USE THE USB.
 >:D >:D >:D
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: jerryfreak on January 20, 2020, 06:30:19 PM
LIVIN ON THE EDGE!
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: morst on January 20, 2020, 07:40:59 PM
LIVIN ON THE EDGE!
Living on the edge is powering with USB and not even bothering to slap the silly 4xAA sled on there.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: jbell on January 21, 2020, 05:03:52 PM
I bought one of these! 

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1382309-REG/hawk_woods_sd_2_mixpwr_sound_devices_mix_pre.html

I had the SD version that is hot swapable.  I prefer the L mount batteries, but didn't like that the mount off the side.  The Hawks-wood is much better for mounting, but not hot swapable.  I have some really high mah L series batteries and just switch them at set break to be safe.  I also bought the Hawks-wood battery sled used and got a killer deal. 

semi-off topic, but now that i started using L-series batts on my zoom, i wouldnt hesitate to use them on the mixpre instead of the 8-AA sled. (i really dont consider the 4-AA sled all that useful except for as a backup power source

considering 8-AAs are around 5000 mA at 5V, almost any decent pair of L-series batts in the 2600-3000 mAh range should match or beat them on run time, and they are hot swappable unlike the AAs. and they make some big honkin ones as well, upwards of 10000 mAh, which could easily replace a usb-c battery without the cable fears

we'll be testing a bunch over here: https://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=193221

ill circle back with recs, but i no longer have a mixpre. if anybody has an L-series mount i can pass a pair of known-good batts along to try, in a bit.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: jerryfreak on January 21, 2020, 05:12:55 PM
hey J bell if you wanna test some L-series batts i can send some along that we have metrics for, on the zoom
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: Fatah Ruark (aka MIKE B) on September 08, 2020, 07:16:29 PM
I bought one of those Hypergear batteries a lot of people are using (the red/black one 12000 mAh). Broke out the MixPre-6 today to record some vinyl at the battery is completely dead. No power. Won't charge.

Looking for a more reliable (and maybe smaller) option.

I need to get through a normal night of Phish where I can just leave everything on and get though a single night...so maybe 6-8 hours of on time.

Entirely USB-C would be ideal.

Any good current options?
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: Chuck on September 08, 2020, 07:49:47 PM
Oh, oh I need to check my battery too.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: jerryfreak on September 08, 2020, 07:49:57 PM
I bought one of those Hypergear batteries a lot of people are using (the red/black one 12000 mAh). Broke out the MixPre-6 today to record some vinyl at the battery is completely dead. No power. Won't charge.

Looking for a more reliable (and maybe smaller) option.

I need to get through a normal night of Phish where I can just leave everything on and get though a single night...so maybe 6-8 hours of on time.

Entirely USB-C would be ideal.

Any good current options?

the ankers are very stable
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: jerryfreak on September 08, 2020, 07:50:43 PM
Oh, oh I need to check my battery too.

kep your li-ions disconnected and at about 40% charge in a cool space and they'll live a good, long life
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: DavidPuddy on September 08, 2020, 11:02:35 PM
I bought one of those Hypergear batteries a lot of people are using (the red/black one 12000 mAh). Broke out the MixPre-6 today to record some vinyl at the battery is completely dead. No power. Won't charge.

Looking for a more reliable (and maybe smaller) option.

I need to get through a normal night of Phish where I can just leave everything on and get though a single night...so maybe 6-8 hours of on time.

Entirely USB-C would be ideal.

Any good current options?


I use the Anker 20100 mah PD+ packs and have never had an issue, besides once where I forgot to press the button to supply power via USB-C. They easily last all day at a festival.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: Gordon on December 07, 2020, 10:44:42 AM
I picked up one of these on cybermonday for $20.  even smaller and lighter than the Hypergear.  testing at home with 2 channels phantom I got about 7-7.5 hours.  I never run more than 2 mics + sbd so this should be fine for me.

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B082WD5TY8/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: ts on December 07, 2020, 12:01:25 PM
Hypergear 12000 still on eBay for a good price. $21 OBO. I have a bunch and love them.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: ol' dirty taper on December 07, 2020, 01:27:50 PM
I'd been wanting another Anker 20100mAh PC+ USB C power bank, but they have been sold out for several months online. Bit the bullet and went ahead and got the new Anker 26800mAh PC+ PD 45W USB C on sale black friday for about $100, ran it for 9 hours on my mixpre 6 with 2 mics using phantom and 2 mics run off their own power supply and the power bank still showed half of the bars left.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: taper420 on December 07, 2020, 02:17:36 PM
I don't know how applicable it is to the 3 and 6, but I just managed to get my 10 II to run off of a dual output USB A battery. I haven't tested the limits of this method yet, but it's more of a novelty on my way to powering it with 9V DVD batteries. I imagine similar methods could be applied to the 3 and 6. You can check out my progress here: https://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=195943

The battery I am using to test on is applicable to the 3 and 6, though. I'm using the USB A outputs for testing but it does have a USB C PD output (I think it's 65W). It's a battery shell from China, model QD188-PD. It takes 8X 18650 cells and they are user removable (although swapping them messes with the capacity reading until you charge again).
(https://taperssection.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=195943.0;attach=141864;image)
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: fobstl on August 04, 2021, 10:44:08 PM
Getting ready to pull the trigger on a Mixpre 6ii. Looks like this battery will work, right?
https://www.walmart.com/ip/Anker-Powercore-26-800mAh-Powerbank-with-Power-Delivery-USB-External-Battery-Supports-48W-USB-C-nbsp-Output/812368246?wmlspartner=wlpa&selectedSellerId=508&&adid=22222222227361689953&wl0=&wl1=g&wl2=c&wl3=470056197746&wl4=aud-1185573580265:pla-969431770530&wl5=9022874&wl6=&wl7=&wl8=&wl9=pla&wl10=111830301&wl11=online&wl12=812368246&veh=sem&gclid=CjwKCAjw9aiIBhA1EiwAJ_GTSn8wSlbEgrKEt01U2Hzz92yZcIBbvdlYnf_kQPQA269792rnlA8edhoCCBMQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds (https://www.walmart.com/ip/Anker-Powercore-26-800mAh-Powerbank-with-Power-Delivery-USB-External-Battery-Supports-48W-USB-C-nbsp-Output/812368246?wmlspartner=wlpa&selectedSellerId=508&&adid=22222222227361689953&wl0=&wl1=g&wl2=c&wl3=470056197746&wl4=aud-1185573580265:pla-969431770530&wl5=9022874&wl6=&wl7=&wl8=&wl9=pla&wl10=111830301&wl11=online&wl12=812368246&veh=sem&gclid=CjwKCAjw9aiIBhA1EiwAJ_GTSn8wSlbEgrKEt01U2Hzz92yZcIBbvdlYnf_kQPQA269792rnlA8edhoCCBMQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds)
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: morst on August 04, 2021, 11:12:19 PM
Getting ready to pull the trigger on a Mixpre 6ii. Looks like this battery will work, right?
Sure thing. That Anker looks like the newer version of what I run my Mixpre6 on.
Be sure to get a good USB-charger with USB-C.
My Anker pack runs about 10 hours, with 4 channels of phantom on the Neumann KM100 mics, and takes about 10 hours to charge back up via USB-C!
It takes WAAAAAY longer to charge via USB-A (old style USB) charger, so be sure to charge with USB-C to USB-C cable when you can.


You can run the MixPre 6 off that pack (or a smaller one, or even one which lacked USB-C) with a regular USB-A to USB-C cable but you would only get two channels of phantom power, and the power indictor would remain amber and not green in low power mode.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: SMsound on August 05, 2021, 05:06:12 AM
^^ This advice is exactly what I would say. I record 2-6 channels on my Mixpre-6 I with phantom power, full screen brightness, etc.

I use 4X Eneloop Pro's (Ikea LADDA) for <60 minute recordings just because it's easy/nice form factor. I can get a couple hours max with the 4AA's but it makes me nervous over 1hour.

I use an Anker USB-C 10,000mah battery for anything longer. That lasts for *hours*, but if you accidentally pull the cable out you're screwed, so I always still have some AA batteries in the machine when doing this as a backup (even Alkaline is OK---they'll give you 20 minutes of backup power to notice a problem with your USB-C cable)/

I keep the Anker battery attached to the Mixpre with 2 rubber bands. Best system I have found by far, and I have a ton of clamps/adapters. You can also use Velcro, which I do sometimes, but I don't love velcro glue on my equipment.


PS Powering the MixPre 10 with USB is amazing---this is the only reason I don't run a MixPre-10 (I really like the USB-powering options on the 6)
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: morst on August 05, 2021, 01:02:23 PM
if you accidentally pull the cable out you're screwed, so I always still have some AA batteries in the machine when doing this as a backup (even Alkaline is OK---they'll give you 20 minutes of backup power to notice a problem with your USB-C cable)/
Super duper true.
Even half-used alkalines will let you swap packs, as long as you're keeping an eye on the levels.
Deep in a bag, I'd be sure to use the Wingman app to verify function occasionally, though it doesn't monitor battery level.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: DavidPuddy on August 05, 2021, 01:52:37 PM
I have moved on to using a Ravpower 15000 mah battery pack over the Anker 20100 mah for normal shows, though I will use the Ankers for festivals. They're well priced, too.

https://www.ravpower.com/products/rp-pb203-30w-pd-portable-charger
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: fobstl on August 08, 2021, 10:20:53 AM
Getting ready to pull the trigger on a Mixpre 6ii. Looks like this battery will work, right?
Sure thing. That Anker looks like the newer version of what I run my Mixpre6 on.
Be sure to get a good USB-charger with USB-C.
My Anker pack runs about 10 hours, with 4 channels of phantom on the Neumann KM100 mics, and takes about 10 hours to charge back up via USB-C!
It takes WAAAAAY longer to charge via USB-A (old style USB) charger, so be sure to charge with USB-C to USB-C cable when you can.


You can run the MixPre 6 off that pack (or a smaller one, or even one which lacked USB-C) with a regular USB-A to USB-C cable but you would only get two channels of phantom power, and the power indictor would remain amber and not green in low power mode.
Thanks to all for the advice. I did order the Anker battery that I linked above. And I'm going to order this USB-C cable with right angle on both sides:
https://www.amazon.com/UGREEN-Charging-MacBook-Matebook-Chromebook/dp/B083PP7PSS/ref=asc_df_B083Q68D52/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=459728334703&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=2814996110382732923&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9022874&hvtargid=pla-947040120844&th=1 (https://www.amazon.com/UGREEN-Charging-MacBook-Matebook-Chromebook/dp/B083PP7PSS/ref=asc_df_B083Q68D52/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=459728334703&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=2814996110382732923&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9022874&hvtargid=pla-947040120844&th=1)
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: SMsound on August 09, 2021, 04:24:06 PM
I should have clarified in my post above that I use the Anker 10,000mah battery. It iss plenty for several hours of 4-6ch phantom power recording + full screen brightness.

Re: USB-C cables, I have tried several---the only ones I trust anymore are Apple and Anker.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: BradleyJY15 on September 02, 2021, 03:02:36 PM
I have read through the last few pages several times and am confused.

I need to provide phantom power for 4 mics, plus a line in (SDMP6ii).

I have a RAVPower RP-PB043 (20100mAh/74.3Wh - Type-C Output DC 5V 3A Max). It will only provide phantom power for 2 mics.

How do I know what provides phantom power for 4 mics?
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: BradleyJY15 on September 02, 2021, 03:21:15 PM
I am using a USB-C cable.

I get the message "USB Power Limit: This USB Power Source supports no more than 2 Phantom Power Inputs".

Is my problem the power pack or the cable?

My USB-C cables are "generic" - from monoprice.  Could the cable restrict power supply?

I have also reached out to Sound Devices and am waiting for a response.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: aaronji on September 02, 2021, 03:41:29 PM
Per SD (https://www.sounddevices.com/mixpre-3-mixpre-6-powering-options/):

Quote from: Sound Devices
To fully power the MixPre-3 II or MixPre-6 II from a USB power source not listed above, you will need BOTH of the following:

USB-C power source that is compliant with the USB powering specification and is able to output 7.5W
USB-C cable that incorporates the correct pull-up resistors to identify itself as able to provide 7.5W
If either of these conditions are not met, the MixPre recorder will operate in low power mode: maximum 2x 48v phantom channels, no HDMI, no USB-A. You can still use all of the MixPre’s channels, but only a maximum of 2 can be phantom powered.

With 5V and 3A, that battery would appear to meet the first requirement, so I would suspect that the cable is the issue. Just a guess, though. It is also possible that the battery is not "compliant with the USB powering specification". I am curious to hear what SD says...
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: BradleyJY15 on September 02, 2021, 04:01:23 PM
SD Said:

"It could be that the cable you are using with your power bank is not properly supplying power to the MixPre-6 II. What cable are you using to power from your current power bank?

This power bank from Anker should be able to power 4 channels of 48V phantom power on your MixPre + CH 5 and CH6:
PowerCore+ 26800 PD 45W."

I replied that I was using a generic USB-C cable (will share if I hear back again from them).

I went ahead and ordered the power bank they suggested, it comes with its own cable.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: aaronji on September 02, 2021, 04:31:43 PM
If you want something a little smaller, you might also try the Anker PowerCore 10000 PD. I think they are discontinued, but still available. They also have a PowerCore Slim 10000 PD that has been tempting me for a while. I think anything with PD should work with the appropriate cable. Also, make sure to get a charger for the battery that is PD compliant, otherwise you may face some LONG recharging times.

[EDIT:] It appears that the PowerCore 10000 PD is still listed on the Anker site. They introduced the PowerCore 10000 PD Redux at some point; I thought that supplanted the 10000 PD, but apparently not. I should also add that I get the full green power indicator on the MixPre with the 10000 PD, but I have never run more than four channels (never tried it with 5/6 plus the four XLR inputs).
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: BradleyJY15 on September 02, 2021, 06:46:00 PM
What does the PD stand for?

I am OK with a slightly larger unit.

I bought this, comes with a cable and charger so I assume it should be OK.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07XRJZXKY/ref=ppx_od_dt_b_asin_title_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: DavidPuddy on September 02, 2021, 06:51:01 PM
What does the PD stand for?

I am OK with a slightly larger unit.

I bought this, comes with a cable and charger so I assume it should be OK.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07XRJZXKY/ref=ppx_od_dt_b_asin_title_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Power Delivery. I believe that it adjusts the current according to the connected device's demands.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: BradleyJY15 on September 02, 2021, 07:01:38 PM
Power Delivery, makes sense.

I tried electrical engineering for 1 semester.  Dropped 2 EE classes.  Went back to civil engineering.  I don't get electrical stuff very well. 

Tough to figure anything out for me without everyone's help on here.

Thanks much.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: checht on September 02, 2021, 08:03:53 PM
Using the Anker battery discussed above, and an Anker cable, have run the mp6II w 4 x Schoeps actives > PFAs plus SBD into Aux for 5 hours easily.

Cable is super short, which works well in my bag:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B085HHKH5P/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: voltronic on September 02, 2021, 09:53:16 PM
I don't own one of these recorders, but I have followed this thread now and then. A couple people have suggested NP-F batteries, but I know they can get quite expensive and that may be one reason for the experimentation with all of the USB-C batteries.

I just wanted to share that I have been running these Dracast 6600 mAh batteries (https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1373127-REG/dracast_drbk2npf2ch6600_2_x_np_f_6600mah.html) with my F6 since I first bought it, and they run that recorder for a VERY long time, even with all 6 channels going. (well over 14 hrs in my tests) They are far cheaper than the typical "pro" name batteries, but not sketchy like the cheapies you find on Amazon or eBay.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: BradleyJY15 on September 04, 2021, 03:52:57 PM
New Anker power unit and cable worked to power 4 phantom channels.  Tried new Anker cable on old Ravpower did not work.  Tried 2 old generic USB-C cables on new Anker and it worked.  So the Ravpower unit I have does not have enough power for 4 phantom channels.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: morst on September 04, 2021, 05:04:21 PM
New Anker power unit and cable worked to power 4 phantom channels.  Tried new Anker cable on old Ravpower did not work.  Tried 2 old generic USB-C cables on new Anker and it worked.  So the Ravpower unit I have does not have enough power for 4 phantom channels.



I have a RAVPower RP-PB043 (20100mAh/74.3Wh - Type-C Output DC 5V 3A Max). It will only provide phantom power for 2 mics.
Very interesting that this RAVpower won't power four Kashmir preamps.
It appears from the marketing blurb that this does not have "PD" listed but it's doing a lot of power management stuff on the other ports.
Our use case in this avocation is often different from the expected, and here I would say the lesson appears that "PD" packs are going to be more likely to work reliably than those with other whistles and bells.


Personally my Anker Powercore+20100 purchased may 2018 is still holding tough.
Takes ten hours to charge via USB-C and then will run the machine for about ten hours with all preamps hot.
Takes incredibly long to charge if you don't have a USB-C charger though!


Quote

RAVPower RP-PB043 Overview

The 20,100mAh Turbo Portable Battery Pack from RAVPower features three USB ports for charging: one iSmart 3.0 USB Type-A port, one USB Type-A port with Qualcomm Quick Charge 3.0 technology, and a USB Type-C port. With Quick Charge 3.0, you'll be able to charge your compatible devices faster and spend less time waiting around. Its USB Type-C output is powerful enough to charge a MacBook while simultaneously transferring data to your mobile phone via the iSmart 3.0 USB port, which offers smart voltage and current distribution, and data transfer for extra functionality. The Turbo battery pack also has built-in overcharge, high-temperature, and short-circuit protection.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: checht on September 04, 2021, 06:22:17 PM
Personally my Anker Powercore+20100 purchased may 2018 is still holding tough.
Takes ten hours to charge via USB-C and then will run the machine for about ten hours with all preamps hot.
Takes incredibly long to charge if you don't have a USB-C charger though!

My Anker batt of similar vintage seems to have lost 3-5% of capacity.
What wattage is your charger? Picked up a RAV 90w Ga charger for macbook pro, and halved charge time for my batt.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: morst on September 04, 2021, 07:35:44 PM
My Anker batt of similar vintage seems to have lost 3-5% of capacity.
What wattage is your charger? Picked up a RAV 90w Ga charger for macbook pro, and halved charge time for my batt.
I just recently got a large multi-port charging "brick" which has USB-C so I will tell you about that, but the charger I usually use for the portable pack is a single USB-A + single USB-C made by RavPower, the "RavPower 24W 2-Port Wall charger with USB-C" model number RP-PC027.


The larger one has a new job, charging an android phone via spare drive enclosure cables, it's an Anker PowerPort I PD with 1 PD and 4 PIQ. Sorry about the filth but it was cheap on ebay! Model A-2056
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: Dirtybiz on May 13, 2022, 04:18:39 PM
What does the PD stand for?

I am OK with a slightly larger unit.

I bought this, comes with a cable and charger so I assume it should be OK.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07XRJZXKY/ref=ppx_od_dt_b_asin_title_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Have you used this power bank with success?  I'm looking to buy the same one.

DB
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: DavidPuddy on May 13, 2022, 04:22:27 PM
What does the PD stand for?

I am OK with a slightly larger unit.

I bought this, comes with a cable and charger so I assume it should be OK.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07XRJZXKY/ref=ppx_od_dt_b_asin_title_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Have you used this power bank with success?  I'm looking to buy the same one.

DB

I have been using two of the smaller 20k mah packs with no issues. They last all day running 4 channels on 48v.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: Gordon on March 30, 2023, 09:17:41 AM
A reminder to check your batteries from time to time!  I had one of my "trusty" Hypergear 12000 mAh die on me after about 4 hours.  The AA backup died as well.  Only missed half the encore and was able to splice from another taper.

When I first got the battery several years ago I got 9 hours or so as I recall.  I tested all my batteries again and most lost an hour or so from my original test.  The one Hypergear though lost 5!  I blame my daughter charging her phone with it!  She now has her own battery packs!
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: jbell on March 30, 2023, 10:30:20 AM
Not a bad idea to carry a backup just in case! 

A reminder to check your batteries from time to time!  I had one of my "trusty" Hypergear 12000 mAh die on me after about 4 hours.  The AA backup died as well.  Only missed half the encore and was able to splice from another taper.

When I first got the battery several years ago I got 9 hours or so as I recall.  I tested all my batteries again and most lost an hour or so from my original test.  The one Hypergear though lost 5!  I blame my daughter charging her phone with it!  She now has her own battery packs!
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: Gordon on March 30, 2023, 10:33:37 AM
I actually thought about that night but have never had an issue.  I'm taking the big ass anker to Athens tomorrow!
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: checht on March 30, 2023, 01:07:01 PM
Super important, major point of failure.
I test annually.
4 year old anker 10k and Mophie 10k seem to lose about 5 min/year. I don't use 'em for anything else though.
Run w 4 AA in the sled, even if just to give me time to swap usbc batts.
Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: achalsey on May 25, 2023, 03:28:29 PM
Not a battery, but would a macbook USB-C power cord provide safe power?  It says it outputs 20V, 15V, 9V, or 5V.

Title: Re: Mix-Pre 3/6 USB Batteries (what works and what doesn't)
Post by: justme on May 25, 2023, 03:40:07 PM
Not a battery, but would a macbook USB-C power cord provide safe power?  It says it outputs 20V, 15V, 9V, or 5V.

Yes it will.
The MP6 and Apple charger will negotiate over power delivery and come to a suitable voltage and current.