• TalkBass has been independent since 1998. Add your voice.
    Create a free account to reply to discussions, view embedded media, and browse with fewer display ads.
    Join freeLog in
    Want zero display ads or expanded classifieds tools? Compare plans.

Rechargeable 9Vs?!

in all the years I have had active basses, I have never changed a battery more than once or twice a year, and that's playing a couple hours on my #1 bass every day, for months and months and months, but like many others, I do bring a spare and a screwdriver to get into the back cover in the case.

however, the point of using rechargeables on the environment is great!!
 
I prefer to use just "normal" 9Vs in my basses. Even if I had rechargables I'd probably forget to recharge them when needed. Plus, you'll be wearing the battery down each charge, so it'll hold the charge less time, and eventually it'll be useless.
 
I did some research into rechargables and normal alkalines...

slightly less output voltage when fully charged, and like ALLEXCOSTA said the current flow ( as minor as a preamp draws ) is not steady.

so as far as protecting the environment by reusing batteries... nope

p.s. I DO remember trying that in my sampson wireless, and NOPE it would make the greenlight on the transmitter turn to yellow and then red within a 1/2 hour, where a regular one is about 2.5-3 hours before it craps out.
 
Rechargeables don't last, I used to have 4 NHds and I had to change them every week or so (charge the ones that were dead), my current 2 9V standard batteries have lasted a year and a 1/2 and still going.
 
I've never had any luck with my set of rechargeable 9V batteries. I would like to be more environmentally conscience but I don't want to sacrifice something cutting out or not sounding good. Whether it be a pedal (still don't have a board) or my wireless.

On that note... anyone know of any studies done on 9Vs to see which is good/best?
 
I buy Energizer or Duracell 9V batteries when on sale for under 2.00 each and have to change them about once a year (always just after new year) on my go to basses that are played daily. I rarely HAVE to change them, I just do.

Environment aside, regular batteries last a very long time in an active bass even if it is played a few hours a day.
 
I use the Maha Energy Power EX 9.6V NiMH batteries that are designed for Pro Audio in my wireless transmitter, they work great. Most "9V" rechargeables are not suitable replacements for alkalines (most are not even a full 9.0 volts).

Since I only change my bass battery every 6-8 months I don't bother with rechargeables there.

Later
Rob
 
The biggest problems with the rechargables are the lack of high-current capability (not always a problem in a bass), but the biggest one is that fact that a 9 volt rechargable is only 7.2 volts. get a lithium cell, and replace it once a year on your birthday.