Topic: DR-680 and Battery Power

[cashandkerouac]

i've perused the various threads of discussion about the DR-680 and battery power in search of a solution to my DR-680 problems, and so far i've found no solution.  i started out using a Tekkeon and the DR-680 would always die 1-2 hours into a show.  after 10-15 minutes of rest it would come back to life, but it was consistently unreliable with the Tekkeon.  i then went to a battery from batterygeek and the unit stopped dying, but now i have a new problem... strange digi noise at various points on the recording.  i've tried two different DR-680s and have run the external battery at 9v as well as 12v with the exact same results 

whatever is going on with the DR-680 it seems to be very picky about external battery power and for the most point just doesn't work properly when powered by an external battery.  at least that is my conclusion after about a dozen shows of consistent problems. 

i'm at the point of bagging the DR-680 and taking the loss and either going to an R-44 or saving up for the 744... or perhaps even just staying with the simple and very reliable stereo set-up which never fails (mics > Aerco MP-2 > Sony M10).  however, before i totally give up on the DR-680 i'm seeking any suggestions / feedback from those that may be able to help.      

[tgakidis]

I have been using 9v DVD batteries with no issues.  Although channel 2 suddenly dropped 10dBs off and stayed that way, but I don't think that was caused by the battery.  I know for a fact that Busman is trying to identify the battery issues as he ran into problems also.  He has mine right now and is fixing my dB problem.

[beeco]

Yesterday I received one of these from Hong Kong - the "Hoo Boy Chinese battery," as it's been called:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/5V-9V-12V-USB-Super-Capacity-Recharge-Li-ion-Battery-/280726420534?pt=US_Batteries&hash=item415c993c36

It comes with a 12v cable and a tip that fits the DR-680.  But don't take my word for it - I don't own a DR-680 (yet).  Some folks are using this battery with good results.  I think at least one person on here has had an issue with this or a similar battery, but it may be worth a shot since you can get it for under $40 shipped, since it's li-ion, light weight, rechargeable, flexible, etc.  IF it works, it'll be a pretty nice unit for portable power. 

I'll take some pics of my battery tonight, with the included accessories, and start a new thread about this thing.  I'll open it up and shoot some pics if I can do that without breaking it.  I'm hoping it will serve as a solid replacement for my DVD batteries when they wear out, as long as it doesn't fry anything.  I've run my R09-HR off of the 5v USB power and had no issues there.  It should run the R-09HR continuously for about a week, I'm thinking.  Just need to find the correct tip for my pre-amp and try that out at 9v.

Good luck, and don't give up on that deck - at least not without offering it up in the yard sale 

[acidjack]

Tekkeon will fry it. No question.

I have run it on manual with the Tekkeon at 10V and gotten through a whole show, but I wouldn't necessarily recommend that. 

We have never had a problem with 9V DVD batts at multiple shows.   More likely what you are experiencing is that your Tekkeon fried or partially fried the unit, and now it doesn't work properly when powered by anything.

Unless you really want 6 channels, the R-44 (and obviously the 744) is a much easier to use and more reliable unit, and it'll work fine with a Tekkeon.

[cashandkerouac]

Tekkeon will fry it. No question.

I have run it on manual with the Tekkeon at 10V and gotten through a whole show, but I wouldn't necessarily recommend that. 

We have never had a problem with 9V DVD batts at multiple shows.   More likely what you are experiencing is that your Tekkeon fried or partially fried the unit, and now it doesn't work properly when powered by anything.

Unless you really want 6 channels, the R-44 (and obviously the 744) is a much easier to use and more reliable unit, and it'll work fine with a Tekkeon.

the 2nd unit has never been run with the Tekkeon, so my current issues are unrelated to any previous use of the Tekkeon.  also, Chris (at Busman) has been running my 1st DR-680 and says that he has had no issus.  the new batterygeek battery that i'm using is basically a high capacity DVD battery with a selector switch for 9v or 12v, so i'm really at a loss to understand why the unit still won't make it through a show without some type of problem.  uggggh!   

[cashandkerouac]

I have been using 9v DVD batteries with no issues.  Although channel 2 suddenly dropped 10dBs off and stayed that way, but I don't think that was caused by the battery.  I know for a fact that Busman is trying to identify the battery issues as he ran into problems also.  He has mine right now and is fixing my dB problem.

this sounds similar to one of the issues i had when using the Tekkeon, but it would only be temporary.  when my right channel would drop out it would usually come back after the unit rested for 10-15 minutes.  please let me know what Chris finds, as it may be useful info for figuring out my ongoing problems.  thanks.

[kirk97132]

Not that this helps you guys at all, but I've run two 680's and both work perfectly on DVD batteries, with no level changes.   I've run them for at least three hours on battery all fine. 

So to try and help track things down  IE maybe a certain range of serial numbers.  My serial numbers are:
0010168 bought when they first came out
0070325 bought Jan 2011

[Chuck]

I'm glad Busman is looking into the level drop issue. I sent my DR-680 back to Tascam to have them check mine, because I had the level drop issue happen twice. They told me mine was working to spec. I was also using 9v  DVD batteries then. I'm using 12v SLA's now, with no problems so far.

[T-90]

well this thread has dually inspired me to purchase an r-44 today....

1) i was after a 680 and had been able to digest all the other questionable reviews, but this thread pushed me back over the edge of being scared 
2) i was also gonna post an ISO thread for an r-44 but figured after this one was posted that i didnt stand a good chance of scoring one as it seems some others are after them also 

i should have it in time for magfest next week and am pretty stoked!  this will lighten up and simplify the gear bag some

[yltfan]

Been running my 680 with 9v DVD batteries for over a year, no issues (knock on wood).
Serial #0010540

[hi and lo]

Here's what I think....

- There is definitely an issue with external batteries and this unit. Too many user reported issues and non-functional decks not to be
- Tekkeon's set to auto (or other high voltage sources) can fry the mobo instantly (sys rom error)
- DVD batteries seems to work, but could create subtle issues that, while less serious, can be about as annoying as a bricked unit
- Tascam support in the US has been helpful in repairing/replacing units, but has never issued a root cause for the MANY decks that are experiencing issues
- When the deck is functioning correctly, there is no better cost/functionality unit on the market.

[Chuck]

Here's what I think....

- There is definitely an issue with external batteries and this unit. Too many user reported issues and non-functional decks not to be
- Tekkeon's set to auto (or other high voltage sources) can fry the mobo instantly (sys rom error)
- DVD batteries seems to work, but could create subtle issues that, while less serious, can be about as annoying as a bricked unit
- Tascam support in the US has been helpful in repairing/replacing units, but has never issued a root cause for the MANY decks that are experiencing issues
- When the deck is functioning correctly, there is no better cost/functionality unit on the market.

A good assessment. 

[ArchivalAudio]

how bout a 12v li-Ion battery like these:
with a hot swappable cable for 2 of these
http://www.elementalled.com/rechargeable-li-ion-battery-pack.html
or one of these
much more $
but looks promising too.

http://www.elementalled.com/rechargeable-15-hour-lithium-ion-battery.html

I don't wanna F*#k up my DR-680

[Fried Chicken Boy]

Here's what I think....

- There is definitely an issue with external batteries and this unit. Too many user reported issues and non-functional decks not to be
- Tekkeon's set to auto (or other high voltage sources) can fry the mobo instantly (sys rom error)
- DVD batteries seems to work, but could create subtle issues that, while less serious, can be about as annoying as a bricked unit
- Tascam support in the US has been helpful in repairing/replacing units, but has never issued a root cause for the MANY decks that are experiencing issues
- When the deck is functioning correctly, there is no better cost/functionality unit on the market.

A good assessment. 

Seconded.  When using an external power supply, there just doesn't seem to be any consistency about what will safely and reliably power this deck.  Some people can run 12v, some can't; some people can run 9v, some can't...

[ArchivalAudio]

Just pulled the trigger on the tekkeon
I'm hoping it's gonna work smooth for my 680

[kirk97132]

Hey Ian sent you a couple Emails and PM's are you not getting them???

[NOLAfishwater]

I have had luck with Bixnet batteries and this one looks really nice for the price:

http://www.bixnet.com/exnobapo80.html

[ArchivalAudio]

I have had luck with Bixnet batteries and this one looks really nice for the price:

http://www.bixnet.com/exnobapo80.html

Damn Louie
that one looks great!
--Ian

[hi and lo]

I'm officially back in the business of hauling Lead to shows... should be a nice workout!

Picked up a 4.5aH SLA which is a bit on the small side if I want to power both my 680 and AD2K (lasts roughly 2.75 hours until the AD2K craps out), but damn it feels good knowing that I am using the cleanest of power sources. The 4.5aH batt fits perfectly into the bag to!

Still need to pickup a 7.2aH battery for those long shows; the eco-charge 'top' I got from Ed is freaking sweet... such great power supplies.

[cashandkerouac]

Here's what I think....

- There is definitely an issue with external batteries and this unit. Too many user reported issues and non-functional decks not to be
- Tekkeon's set to auto (or other high voltage sources) can fry the mobo instantly (sys rom error)
- DVD batteries seems to work, but could create subtle issues that, while less serious, can be about as annoying as a bricked unit
- Tascam support in the US has been helpful in repairing/replacing units, but has never issued a root cause for the MANY decks that are experiencing issues
- When the deck is functioning correctly, there is no better cost/functionality unit on the market.

A good assessment. 

Seconded.  When using an external power supply, there just doesn't seem to be any consistency about what will safely and reliably power this deck.  Some people can run 12v, some can't; some people can run 9v, some can't...

i have run the 680 with an external battery at 12v and 9v... results are pretty much the same... krappy! 

[F.O.Bean]

I'm officially back in the business of hauling Lead to shows... should be a nice workout!

Picked up a 4.5aH SLA which is a bit on the small side if I want to power both my 680 and AD2K (lasts roughly 2.75 hours until the AD2K craps out), but damn it feels good knowing that I am using the cleanest of power sources. The 4.5aH batt fits perfectly into the bag to!

Still need to pickup a 7.2aH battery for those long shows; the eco-charge 'top' I got from Ed is freaking sweet... such great power supplies.

I miss SLA's. I used to haul around [4] 6v/7.2a Ecocharges back in the day for festies! What a workout that used to be If you want consistent power supplies, go w/ SLA's If I were Louie and was running that new Tascam 8 chan deck, I would DEF run a big ole 12v SLA

[F.O.Bean]

And I give you folks running these 680's alot of balls and credit, because there is NO FREAKIN WAY I would/could run something as unreliable as the 680

[cashandkerouac]

And I give you folks running these 680's alot of balls and credit, because there is NO FREAKIN WAY I would/could run something as unreliable as the 680

yeah, the 680 was by far the worst puchase i have made in a long time.   

not much i can do other than move on and get over it.  a very expensive lesson learned.   

[kirk97132]

Bean I've been running 680's since they came out,  rock solid and believe me the one deck I put a physical BEATING on at one point.  I know there are people here with deck that gave them issues but just because that you constantly read the same bad times does not make it a bad deck.   What there are maybe 5 decks that have been bad and by the owners own admission some of that could be caused by improper battery power.  How many deck out there running fine?  A lot more than you will ever hear about.  I'm sure if I had gotten a bad unit I'd be pissed too, still don't make 'em all bad.  I bet if you searched you could find 5 744t's that were bad out of the box, but you don't see anyone saying the 744's are bad decks.   The more the same story gets repeated...Bad 680...the more people think it's another story about another bad deck.  I just don't think it's warranted to trash a certain model because of this.  I have had two of them.  FLAWLESS performance.  Would buy another in a heartbeat.  Great sound, great features at a great price.  I'd say of you don't like it don't buy it, but to not buy it due to the continued bashing from people ....some of who do not even own the deck is ludicrous.  Do your own homework.....make your decisions to buy or not to buy based on facts and probably price point.  It's real easy to say...Oh I heard this guy had a bad deck you better stay away from that.....but how is that an accurate piece of advice if you have not had the chance to run the deck?   I think half of this "BAD" rep is only because of situations like that NOT from people who have actually owned the deck.  OK that turned into a rant...sorry bout that but really I know more people here on TS who have NOT had problems than people who have had a problem.  Yet you would think that every one of these decks is bad by the reaction you get as soon as you mention 680.  Don't believe me just look on the archive for 680 and you'll find a bunch of my recording and many many others   And believe me I really feel for the guys who got a lemon or had a problem even if it was due to a battery issue.  That sucks, since I think it's a great deck you never got a chance to enjoy.  I also think you should post your story about the deck to keep things true and maybe even force a step up in QC at Tascam. 

[cashandkerouac]

Bean I've been running 680's since they came out,  rock solid and believe me the one deck I put a physical BEATING on at one point.  I know there are people here with deck that gave them issues but just because that you constantly read the same bad times does not make it a bad deck.   What there are maybe 5 decks that have been bad and by the owners own admission some of that could be caused by improper battery power.  How many deck out there running fine?  A lot more than you will ever hear about.  I'm sure if I had gotten a bad unit I'd be pissed too, still don't make 'em all bad.  I bet if you searched you could find 5 744t's that were bad out of the box, but you don't see anyone saying the 744's are bad decks.   The more the same story gets repeated...Bad 680...the more people think it's another story about another bad deck.  I just don't think it's warranted to trash a certain model because of this.  I have had two of them.  FLAWLESS performance.  Would buy another in a heartbeat.  Great sound, great features at a great price.  I'd say of you don't like it don't buy it, but to not buy it due to the continued bashing from people ....some of who do not even own the deck is ludicrous.  Do your own homework.....make your decisions to buy or not to buy based on facts and probably price point.  It's real easy to say...Oh I heard this guy had a bad deck you better stay away from that.....but how is that an accurate piece of advice if you have not had the chance to run the deck?   I think half of this "BAD" rep is only because of situations like that NOT from people who have actually owned the deck.  OK that turned into a rant...sorry bout that but really I know more people here on TS who have NOT had problems than people who have had a problem.  Yet you would think that every one of these decks is bad by the reaction you get as soon as you mention 680.  Don't believe me just look on the archive for 680 and you'll find a bunch of my recording and many many others   And believe me I really feel for the guys who got a lemon or had a problem even if it was due to a battery issue.  That sucks, since I think it's a great deck you never got a chance to enjoy.  I also think you should post your story about the deck to keep things true and maybe even force a step up in QC at Tascam.

Kirk:  I've had two 680s and the have had the same result.  i'm glad yours works, because i agree that it has great features and capabilities for the money.  however, with external battery power they just are not reliable (in most cases).  if you're ever looking for another 680 i'll be glad to sell you mine (with the Busman mods) at a very fair price.

[CCAMP]

Sorry to chime in late,

I use the 680 for SFX for film. It is a silly box but I have captured everything from classical music to rockets and for the price its not bad.
I mainly use it with the DPA 5100.

I too had problems with EXT power and found a solution just in case your Tekken solution fails.

I use the ID-X Lithium Batterey with a frezzi adaptor
All 6 tracks running phantom rock solid for over 5 hours on a single charge

Hope the info helps...

Best

[Candace]

Just picked up a 680. Thinking about these two for power: any feedback on either?

http://www.thebatterygeeks.com/BG-9-12-66-Portable-DVD-Player-Battery-p/9-12-66.htm

http://www.thebatterygeeks.com/BG-6-12-44-Portable-DVD-Player-Battery-Pack-p/5-12-50.htm

[Stagger]

So I just received my 680. Has anyone found anything that has been working in the last 14 months since this was topic was last active. I've been reading through the 680 threads but they are very hard to turn up search results and 150 pages is a whole lot to go through manually.

I had planned on the Tekkeon route when I first thought of downsizing to this deck but, I have to admit that I'm pretty scared by the results I'm reading about here, though I don't think that the MP3450i R3 was out when this was last active. Basically I'm just looking for advice now that y'all have had a few years with these decks.

[hi and lo]

Just picked up a 680. Thinking about these two for power: any feedback on either?

http://www.thebatterygeeks.com/BG-9-12-66-Portable-DVD-Player-Battery-p/9-12-66.htm

http://www.thebatterygeeks.com/BG-6-12-44-Portable-DVD-Player-Battery-Pack-p/5-12-50.htm

Responding to a very old post here, but I use the 10-14-115, which is a bit bigger than the 9-12-66 and it's awesome. Will power the 680 forever! The 66 is probably a better fit for most non-festival situations.

[hi and lo]

So I just received my 680. Has anyone found anything that has been working in the last 14 months since this was topic was last active. I've been reading through the 680 threads but they are very hard to turn up search results and 150 pages is a whole lot to go through manually.

I had planned on the Tekkeon route when I first thought of downsizing to this deck but, I have to admit that I'm pretty scared by the results I'm reading about here, though I don't think that the MP3450i R3 was out when this was last active. Basically I'm just looking for advice now that y'all have had a few years with these decks.

A 9v DVD battery is a fine option, but my recommendation would be the 10-14-115 from battery geeks which I just linked to. A tekkeon w/o auto-sensing voltage is -probably- ok, but I would only go that route if you absolutely need the usb output to run another unit simultaneously with the 680.

[Stagger]

Funny thing is that I just sent off my wally world 9V when I sold/traded my V2 for the 680 + cash.

Ahh well... I just ordered a http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005NGKR54/ref=oh_details_o00_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Which some folks in thread 4 or 5 had good results with. I do use the USB to power my iPhone when I broadcast shows (though I do have some separate little usb/phone only batts for this too).

Off topic (sort of) Also grabbed a http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00B7ID99I/ref=oh_details_o00_s00_i01?ie=UTF8&psc=1 for $15.00. Not bad for a 32gb class 10/UHS-1 card. Only issue is that I don't think that the 680 will take advantage of the UHS feature which slows down the card a bunch. Oh well, I know my Nikon D7000 will make use of the UHS so I'll just take one of my regular Class 10 cards for the 680.

Anyway, my issue seems to be solved so I'll let this go back to a dead thread.