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Gear / Technical Help => Battery Boxes, Preamps, Mixers, ADCs, and Processors => Topic started by: tbrown4 on May 01, 2009, 06:28:56 AM

Title: Sound Devices MP-2...older vs. newer
Post by: tbrown4 on May 01, 2009, 06:28:56 AM
I'm doing some research and talking to some folks about this. The older ones lack the necessary spring in the battery compartment which allows the use of rechargeable AAs. I've been told that this work could cost $75-$100 for SD to do. Is this something that could be fairly easy and safe to DIY? 
Title: Re: Sound Devices MP-2...older vs. newer
Post by: sleepypedro on May 01, 2009, 06:39:06 AM
I'm doing some research and talking to some folks about this. The older ones lack the necessary spring in the battery compartment which allows the use of rechargeable AAs. I've been told that this work could cost $75-$100 for SD to do. Is this something that could be fairly easy and safe to DIY? 

if i recall correctly, all you have to do is xacto off some of the plastic label on your AA batteries and they'll mount fine in an unmodified unit.

and i also think they were doing it for a flat rate of $50 at one point.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MP-2...older vs. newer
Post by: M on May 01, 2009, 02:31:50 PM
Be careful with what batteries you stick in the tube.  The width of some rechargeable batteries is too big for the battery tube and can be a major pain in the ass to get out once stuck.
Title: Re: Sound Devices MP-2...older vs. newer
Post by: tbrown4 on May 01, 2009, 05:48:16 PM
Thanks for the feedback, all!

+T

..oh, wait
Title: Re: Sound Devices MP-2...older vs. newer
Post by: su6oxone on May 06, 2009, 04:18:42 PM
if i recall correctly, all you have to do is xacto off some of the plastic label on your AA batteries and they'll mount fine in an unmodified unit.

and i also think they were doing it for a flat rate of $50 at one point.

I don't really recommend trying to peel away the rechargeable battery jacket.  I did that when I was trying to see how to get it to work, and when I turned on the MP-2 there was some weird, loud, electrical-sounding "sizzle" and I instantly turned it off and got rid of that battery.  Don't think it's recommended to mess with the sleeves as they probably serve some purpose (googling perhaps would turn something up). 

FWIW, flat rate for MP-2/MixPre servicing nowadays is $75 plus parts and shipping to/from SD.  Costs about $100 if you don't need any major parts.