Topic: PMD 661 external power options?

[MULETAPER]

anyone have a solution for external power for 5v 1.5 amp? will a power-runner battery do 5 volts at the correct amps?Just feeling out some options so I dont need to ever change batteries under the gun,and not worry about having to turn it off.

You cant just go to radio shack anymore and buy Caps and Resistors,or I would think about building a stepdown from 9v,which isnt so hard but time consuming.Ide rather go with option A

waddaya thunk?

[audBall]

I normally use internal AAs, but I carry a PP-99 battery around in case I need some extra power.  The trick is finding a connector that the PMD-661 likes.  If you have an old JB3, the original AC cable connector fits perfectly.  I hacked the cable that came with the PP-99 and have used the JB3 connector with no problems.  I was getting low on AA battery power at NYE Miami and plugged the PP-99 battery in while recording and the 661 switched over to "plug-in power" automatically. 

I think others have used the Tekkeon battery with success and I believe it comes with a connector that works fine with the 661.

Here's a link to the PP-99:
http://www.amazon.com/iConcepts-Digi-Power-Pack-PP99/dp/B0009EXVGC

[stevetoney]

This should answer your question...

http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=119213.msg1597270#msg1597270

I use a Power runner to power all of my recorders.  I just bought a 661 (haven't received it yet) and I plan on powering it with the power runner.  It's my understanding that the Tekkeon is the successor to the power runner.  (Mine is the higher capacity power runner, which I think is analogous to the Tekkeon 3450.)

Reach your own conclusions, but I'm 99.9% sure that the Power runner will work for you without a problem.

Respectfully, Horus/Audball, that battery that you referenced I suppose would work fine for one show.  I have one and I never use it because it's a mere babe compared to a Tekkeon or a Power runner.  I NEVER and I mean NEVER have to worry about power when I use my power runner.  One of the best battery's on earth for what we do, AFAIC.  (It powered my R-09HR for complete 3-day festivals last year without a recharge...and that was running the R-09HR for 10+ hours daily!!)

[JasonSobel]

This should answer your question...

http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=119213.msg1597270#msg1597270

exactly what I came in here to post.  a Tekkeon MP3450 is about the same size as the PMD-661 itself, and with phantom power on, it will power your beyers for 15+ hours, easy

[MULETAPER]

Thanks Jason!

exactly what I need!

[MULETAPER]

BTW, where did you buy your battery from so I can order one and what was the final cost?

[JasonSobel]

I think I bought mine from Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Tekkeon-MP3450-myPower-Rechargeable-Battery/dp/B000S9JWJI

although if you do a google search for it, you'll be able to find many online retailers, most of them in the $115-$120 range.  also, one of the standard tips that comes with the tekkeon fit the PMD-661 perfectly, so no need to go searching for additional connectors or anything.

[stevetoney]

Following up on my earlier response, I got my new-to-me used 661 last night.  I can confirm that a powerrunner powers this thing like a champ.  I'd have no reservations whatsoever buying a Tekkeon 3450 for powering the 661. 

Doing a run-time test right now.  I don't have any internal batteries in the 661, but I've got the powerrunner set at 5V and she's running like a champ right now.  I'm testing to see how long it records on a single powerrunner charge and also to verify that my 16GB Toshiba SDHC cards (purchased a few months ago at Sams for $40 each!) won't have any read/write errors when I get to my first show.

I can confirm that the tip you need is the standard size yellow tip connector.  I'd be surprised if you didn't already have a couple of these laying around the house.  I have at least 4 or 5 of them...a couple of loose tips and a number of wal-warts with this same tip (I'd just cut it off the wal-wart if I didn't have the tip already.)

[datbrad]

Following up on my earlier response, I got my new-to-me used 661 last night.  I can confirm that a powerrunner powers this thing like a champ.  I'd have no reservations whatsoever buying a Tekkeon 3450 for powering the 661. 

Doing a run-time test right now.  I don't have any internal batteries in the 661, but I've got the powerrunner set at 5V and she's running like a champ right now.  I'm testing to see how long it records on a single powerrunner charge and also to verify that my 16GB Toshiba SDHC cards (purchased a few months ago at Sams for $40 each!) won't have any read/write errors when I get to my first show.

I can confirm that the tip you need is the standard size yellow tip connector.  I'd be surprised if you didn't already have a couple of these laying around the house.  I have at least 4 or 5 of them...a couple of loose tips and a number of wal-warts with this same tip (I'd just cut it off the wal-wart if I didn't have the tip already.)

Hey Steve, Is that a stock 661?

Congrats, by the way. Maybe this little daddy will finally make you stop being a gear playa and settle down for a while. 

[stevetoney]

Following up on my earlier response, I got my new-to-me used 661 last night.  I can confirm that a powerrunner powers this thing like a champ.  I'd have no reservations whatsoever buying a Tekkeon 3450 for powering the 661. 

Doing a run-time test right now.  I don't have any internal batteries in the 661, but I've got the powerrunner set at 5V and she's running like a champ right now.  I'm testing to see how long it records on a single powerrunner charge and also to verify that my 16GB Toshiba SDHC cards (purchased a few months ago at Sams for $40 each!) won't have any read/write errors when I get to my first show.

I can confirm that the tip you need is the standard size yellow tip connector.  I'd be surprised if you didn't already have a couple of these laying around the house.  I have at least 4 or 5 of them...a couple of loose tips and a number of wal-warts with this same tip (I'd just cut it off the wal-wart if I didn't have the tip already.)

Hey Steve, Is that a stock 661?

Congrats, by the way. Maybe this little daddy will finally make you stop being a gear playa and settle down for a while. 

Yes it's a stock model Brad...got a cream puff used for $425.  Very happy about that.  I'm planning to use it as a bit bucket through the SPDIF and only use the XLR's and preamps for situations where my Oade preamps might not have enough power.  Over Christmas break, I bought a Mytek Stereo192 ADC, which I'm also very happy about.  However, I might run the 661 straight up once or twice just to hear what she sounds like stock. 

As far as settling down...you just never know.  LOL. 

PS: Profile updated! 

[datbrad]

Following up on my earlier response, I got my new-to-me used 661 last night.  I can confirm that a powerrunner powers this thing like a champ.  I'd have no reservations whatsoever buying a Tekkeon 3450 for powering the 661. 

Doing a run-time test right now.  I don't have any internal batteries in the 661, but I've got the powerrunner set at 5V and she's running like a champ right now.  I'm testing to see how long it records on a single powerrunner charge and also to verify that my 16GB Toshiba SDHC cards (purchased a few months ago at Sams for $40 each!) won't have any read/write errors when I get to my first show.

I can confirm that the tip you need is the standard size yellow tip connector.  I'd be surprised if you didn't already have a couple of these laying around the house.  I have at least 4 or 5 of them...a couple of loose tips and a number of wal-warts with this same tip (I'd just cut it off the wal-wart if I didn't have the tip already.)

Hey Steve, Is that a stock 661?

Congrats, by the way. Maybe this little daddy will finally make you stop being a gear playa and settle down for a while. 

Yes it's a stock model Brad...got a cream puff used for $425.  Very happy about that.  I'm planning to use it as a bit bucket through the SPDIF and only use the XLR's and preamps for situations where my Oade preamps might not have enough power.  Over Christmas break, I bought a Mytek Stereo192 ADC, which I'm also very happy about.  However, I might run the 661 straight up once or twice just to hear what she sounds like stock. 

As far as settling down...you just never know.  LOL. 

PS: Profile updated! 

Nice

[MULETAPER]

Congrats on the 661! Its a great little bit bucket for sure.I have run both a stock and I own a O-CM.Im really happy with the rusults with both,In my opinion the concert mod really broadens the spectrum of sound and nicely balances it.Im going touse mine for lots of differt projects so it really fits my build for now. I am however considering hard on going to a four channel rig.good luck and THANK YOU ALL for the input.

appreciated mucho~

[dactylus]

I think I bought mine from Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Tekkeon-MP3450-myPower-Rechargeable-Battery/dp/B000S9JWJI

although if you do a google search for it, you'll be able to find many online retailers, most of them in the $115-$120 range.  also, one of the standard tips that comes with the tekkeon fit the PMD-661 perfectly, so no need to go searching for additional connectors or anything.

Tekkeon also makes a RA power cable for their "myPower ALL" series batteries - very nice too:

http://www.tekkeon.com/productcart/pc/viewPrd.asp?idcategory=21&idproduct=138

plus extra adapters:


http://www.tekkeon.com/productcart/pc/viewCategories.asp?idCategory=20


Great batteries for the 661.  Thanks to Jason for steering me in that direction!!   

[MULETAPER]

Follow up:

I bought a Tekkeon MP3450 for 109 bucks at amazon.When I look at what ive spent on batteries and what use ive gotten previously out ouf other dvd batterys Ive owned for my other stuff I concur:

there is never a better investment then a good re-chargable that will do every thing from run your laptop for 4 hrs and power your rig for an easy 15 hrs. it's priceless!It fits snug in its pleather case that it comes with just fine under the 661 and light weight for the size.best thing yet,wanna chare your cell phone? yeah,plug it right in!

runs from 5-19V and its really killer.

fir giggles im going to see how long it will run my UA5... >:5
thanks for all the tips folks
+T

[Massive Dynamic]

Hey Steve, Is that a stock 661?

Congrats, by the way. Maybe this little daddy will finally make you stop being a gear playa and settle down for a while. 

Yes it's a stock model Brad...got a cream puff used for $425.  Very happy about that.  I'm planning to use it as a bit bucket through the SPDIF and only use the XLR's and preamps for situations where my Oade preamps might not have enough power.  Over Christmas break, I bought a Mytek Stereo192 ADC, which I'm also very happy about.  However, I might run the 661 straight up once or twice just to hear what she sounds like stock. 

As far as settling down...you just never know.  LOL. 

PS: Profile updated! 

Nice

Yeah, that was a nice price.

[DigiGal]

How long does it take to charge/recharge the Tekkeon MP3450?                                                                                                                                                                       
edit to add answer (thanks flipp) - 4 hrs according to their FAQ's  ---> http://www.tekkeon.com/products-mypall-faq.html

I'm thinking about picking one up to power my 661 running phantom power.  Changing AA alkaline's between sets to be sure and have enough power for a complete show is getting old.

[Since85]

Is there a compatible battery out there that is smaller, but the correct voltage? I just need several (like 6) hours no problem, but would like an external battery that is much smaller...

Thanks!
 

[bryonsos]

When I had a 661, I ran it off of this USB battery.

http://www.amazon.com/Anker-10000mAh-External-Battery-Charger/dp/B005NGKR54/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1337784659&sr=8-4

[Since85]

Thanks.
So am I just looking for a battery that puts out exactly 5v? How about 6v? I have read about problems with using batteries that provide too much voltage to a PMD661. Is this so?

[jibooer]

Don't screw with the voltage. Very bad news. I have fallen victim to this mishap, and now my 661 is fuct. My vote is for 5v USB power.

[rastasean]

so even this could power it: http://www.ebay.com/itm/5V-2-5A-Mobile-Portable-USB-Battery-Charger-Power-Supply-18650-Box-For-Phone-MP3-/270983284992?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item3f17dcc900
?

[cd2go]

I've been using this, as I can't stand rechargeable batteries: http://tekkeon.com/products-tekcharge1580.html

It only puts out 1A though, so if you are using phantom power on the 661 you might want a box that puts out more (I'm only using the 661 as a bit-bucket now)

[cincykid]

Should I use the Tekkeon MP3450 R3 to power my 661 (phantom power IS needed) or is there a better option???


http://www.tekkeon.com/products-mypowerall.html

Also, what is the difference between the MP3450 and MP3450i models?? I see that the MP3450 has a "Voltage selector" and the MP3450i has a "manual setting". I know that correct voltage is crucial and I don't wanna get the wrong one. 

thanks for any insight on helping me pick a great power supply.

-Dave

[DigiGal]

I'm using a Tekkeon MP3450 R2 to power both the PMD661 and MixPre-D (phantom on), I've also used it to power just the PMD661 (phantom on).  I'm actually on my second 3450, the first one wouldn't hold a charge just after the warranty expired.  Tekkeon replaced it for free outside of the warranty and now a year later the replacement is still working like new.  With the version I have you manually select the voltage using the top button before powering up the load device (it defaults to the lowest voltage setting every time you turn on the battery).  Once the load device is powered up the voltage is then locked and pressing the button will change the battery led display to show capacity the same as when the battery is switched off.  Apparently there are other versions that require setting voltage with dip switches or an auto voltage select version.  Some folks have had issues with the auto voltage select version with certain recorders.  I've never had a problem but be advised that Marantz does not endorse the use of any external battery.

Current models of both 3450 and 3450i compared here

Should I use the Tekkeon MP3450 R3 to power my 661 (phantom power IS needed) or is there a better option???


http://www.tekkeon.com/products-mypowerall.html



Also, what is the difference between the MP3450 and MP3450i models?? I see that the MP3450 has a "Voltage selector" and the MP3450i has a "manual setting". I know that correct voltage is crucial and I don't wanna get the wrong one. 

thanks for any insight on helping me pick a great power supply.

-Dave

[skaggs]

Following up on my earlier response, I got my new-to-me used 661 last night.  I can confirm that a powerrunner powers this thing like a champ.  I'd have no reservations whatsoever buying a Tekkeon 3450 for powering the 661. 

Doing a run-time test right now.  I don't have any internal batteries in the 661, but I've got the powerrunner set at 5V and she's running like a champ right now.  I'm testing to see how long it records on a single powerrunner charge and also to verify that my 16GB Toshiba SDHC cards (purchased a few months ago at Sams for $40 each!) won't have any read/write errors when I get to my first show.

I can confirm that the tip you need is the standard size yellow tip connector.  I'd be surprised if you didn't already have a couple of these laying around the house.  I have at least 4 or 5 of them...a couple of loose tips and a number of wal-warts with this same tip (I'd just cut it off the wal-wart if I didn't have the tip already.)

Not to get off topic, but the Oade preamps i belive send an unbalanced signal and the 661 needs a balanced input, if trying to run the pre>661 analog in, just and FYI, that you probably already knew.  I found out the hard way with my 118>661 effort.  I actually have the oade WMOD 661, and it has become my small "travel rig", very impressed with it as a box, but i have had some powering issues.  I am going to look into the batteries you all talk about here.  Thanks!

Richard

[skaggs]

Following up on my earlier response, I got my new-to-me used 661 last night.  I can confirm that a powerrunner powers this thing like a champ.  I'd have no reservations whatsoever buying a Tekkeon 3450 for powering the 661. 

Doing a run-time test right now.  I don't have any internal batteries in the 661, but I've got the powerrunner set at 5V and she's running like a champ right now.  I'm testing to see how long it records on a single powerrunner charge and also to verify that my 16GB Toshiba SDHC cards (purchased a few months ago at Sams for $40 each!) won't have any read/write errors when I get to my first show.

I can confirm that the tip you need is the standard size yellow tip connector.  I'd be surprised if you didn't already have a couple of these laying around the house.  I have at least 4 or 5 of them...a couple of loose tips and a number of wal-warts with this same tip (I'd just cut it off the wal-wart if I didn't have the tip already.)

Hey Steve, Is that a stock 661?


Congrats, by the way. Maybe this little daddy will finally make you stop being a gear playa and settle down for a while. 

Yes it's a stock model Brad...got a cream puff used for $425.  Very happy about that.  I'm planning to use it as a bit bucket through the SPDIF and only use the XLR's and preamps for situations where my Oade preamps might not have enough power.  Over Christmas break, I bought a Mytek Stereo192 ADC, which I'm also very happy about.  However, I might run the 661 straight up once or twice just to hear what she sounds like stock. 

As far as settling down...you just never know.  LOL. 

PS: Profile updated! 

Sorry meant to quote this, the Oade is unbalanced as i understand and into a 661 produces some nice weird noises.....

[bryonsos]

Following up on my earlier response, I got my new-to-me used 661 last night.  I can confirm that a powerrunner powers this thing like a champ.  I'd have no reservations whatsoever buying a Tekkeon 3450 for powering the 661. 

Doing a run-time test right now.  I don't have any internal batteries in the 661, but I've got the powerrunner set at 5V and she's running like a champ right now.  I'm testing to see how long it records on a single powerrunner charge and also to verify that my 16GB Toshiba SDHC cards (purchased a few months ago at Sams for $40 each!) won't have any read/write errors when I get to my first show.

I can confirm that the tip you need is the standard size yellow tip connector.  I'd be surprised if you didn't already have a couple of these laying around the house.  I have at least 4 or 5 of them...a couple of loose tips and a number of wal-warts with this same tip (I'd just cut it off the wal-wart if I didn't have the tip already.)

Hey Steve, Is that a stock 661?


Congrats, by the way. Maybe this little daddy will finally make you stop being a gear playa and settle down for a while. 

Yes it's a stock model Brad...got a cream puff used for $425.  Very happy about that.  I'm planning to use it as a bit bucket through the SPDIF and only use the XLR's and preamps for situations where my Oade preamps might not have enough power.  Over Christmas break, I bought a Mytek Stereo192 ADC, which I'm also very happy about.  However, I might run the 661 straight up once or twice just to hear what she sounds like stock. 

As far as settling down...you just never know.  LOL. 

PS: Profile updated! 

Sorry meant to quote this, the Oade is unbalanced as i understand and into a 661 produces some nice weird noises.....

What are the outs on the Oade? If it has RCAs or a mini out, you could go into line 2 on the 661.

[skaggs]

Outs on OAde m118 are xlr.  I do have an XLR>mini cable that would probably work, but Doug didn't mod the line 2 in. That said it would probably still sound nice, i should try that.  Hadn't thought of the fact that I had that cable in a while.  Should have run that last weekend at Truth and Salvage.  I will make sure it works first, but right on!  I still love the small package of running the 661 as a box, but i have definitely had power issues, to the point I have taken to running alkaline or lithium AA's cause the rechargeable AA's just suck if you want to run the Pre.......got a cut Funky Meters set to prove it.   

[cincykid]

Skaggs,

I also have an Oade WMOD 661. I thought about buying a Tekkeon MP3450, but then I read your post about "weird noises" and decided to buy this instead:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817355014
    POWEREX MH-C9000 WizardOne Charger-Analyzer w/4pcs 2700mAh AA Rechargeable Batteries (price=$57.99)
-and-
    POWEREX MH-8AA270-BH 2700mAh 8-Pack AA NiMH Rechargeable Batteries (Made in Japan) w/Carrying Case (price=$21.99)
 
Subtotal    $79.98
Tax    $0.00
UPS Guaranteed 3 Day    $5.80
Order Total    $85.78

I will do a run time test with my blueline AKGs with phantom on and post the results. (Motivated b/c I lost power during liz reed at Allgood and didn't get whipping post encore  )