Battery-powered convenience means less cables to deal with and one less AC connection to have to find an outlet for or that might possibly cause a ground-loop hum. However, replacing batteries can be a pain due to the fact that they always seem to run down at the most inconvenient time. Having to keep a fresh supply of batteries can be cumbersome, time consuming, and expensive — not to mention wasteful. Improper disposal of batteries is toxic to the environment and finding a battery recycling center is not always easy. We here at inSync have suggestions to help ease the frustration resulting from this dilema and give you back some of your precious time.
Disengage
As obvious as it may seem, cutting the power to a battery-operated device is the easiest way to conserve battery life. Usually, internal preamps on instruments such as acoustic guitar, mandolin, etc have batteries that are disengaged by unplugging the output cable. The same is true for electric guitars and basses with active pickups and preamps. Leaving one of those plugged in overnight or until you pick it up again, possibly days later, will result in a dead battery. Even if you’re taking a 30-minute break, that’s 30 extra minutes of playing time you’ll get from your battery by simply muting the output and unplugging. Effects pedals powered by batteries operate the same way and are subject to the same rules; mute and unplug for more “free” battery time.
Wireless microphones, wireless instrument transmitters, music stand lights, and anything with an on/off switch can be a bit trickier. Many times the switch is in an out-of-the-way position intentionally, so it won’t get accidentally switched off. Wireless transmitters often have a standby function that requires you to hold down on the on/off switch to completely power off. All of these deserve a second look or double-check to make certain the battery is off. Time consuming—yes, but much less wasteful and inconvenient than staring at a dead battery when you need a live one.
Rechargeable
The world of consumer-related rechargeable batteries has come a long way in a relatively short time. Computers, smartphones, even cars have batteries that efficiently fulfill large power requirements and can be recharged easily and quickly. Direct-replacement rechargeables for 9V, AA, AAA, etc., are available but don’t always meet the high demands of music and performance related gear. This is where Ansmann rechargeable batteries enter and save the day. Ansmann batteries are rechargeables that are designed for use in professional applications. They charge slightly higher than their rated voltage, have a flat discharge curve, and will fully recharge up to 1,000 times. This means reliable, consistent performance and not having to keep an arsenal of batteries on hand. Ansmann rechargeables are great to have around, especially if you use any battery-powered devices for music on a regular basis.
Creating the habit of regularly powering down your battery-operated devices will save you time, money, and frustration; rechargeables will do that and more.
