High End battery solution for the TC-7533 Bushmaster MKII

[Theadmans]

Well that is a good find Aleem - basically confirms that I have one of the batch that switches off after 22 minutes or so. Pete must have lucked out and got one of the good batch that doesn't turn off. Looks like a lottery as to whether this battery will work

I tried the USB outlet to my Squeezebox Touch hoping that would keep the battery running - but found it did not work as on a seperate circuits (as confirmed in your post). As you know I ended up with the Heath Robinson arrangement of powering a 12v Bulb - which works well but drains the battery faster than necessary.

I even spent some time this morning - before I read your post - retesting the battery (without the bulb) and as before the thing shuts down after 20 minutes or so.

[Theadmans]

Reading the eMotimo Forum about the problem with the Anker 20000mah battery it would appear that newer batteries might have the problem :-

"No, not all batteries seem to be having this issue. It appears something has changed with the Ankor (sic) builds".

...or at least that is what I am inferring from this statement.

Pete - I ordered my battery 4th December 2013 - did you order yours before or after this date ?

[clarkey555]

hey adam quit sitting on the fence you will end up with spelks up your backside:lolsign:just get the Deben 8ah tracer and be truly happy just like me:guitar:

[Theadmans]

hey adam quit sitting on the fence you will end up with spelks up your backside:lolsign:just get the Deben 8ah tracer and be truly happy just like me:guitar:

...Yeah good point Peter - but don't get me wrong I am pretty pleased overall with the Anker. I found out by accident (in trying to diagnose the Auto Shutoff) that it can power my Squeezebox Touch (5V DC via USB output) as well as my BM2 (12V DC) simultaneously. Correct me if am wrong but the Deben has not got a USB 5V output so it would only power my BM2 - right ?

I am kind of coping with the bulb lashup anyway - the battery is so powerful it can cope with powering the BM2, Squeezebox Touch (with Display on), and the 12V bulb for several hours for a couple of days before it needs recharging.

Maybe I could get the Deben later on to just power the BM2 leaving the Anker to power my Squeezebox.

[Stresss42]

Hi there - no the deben just has a permanent 12v ( bullet type connector ) - no usb at all.

I have the 4 Ah...wishing I bought the 8 !!!! Damn.

No drop outs / no power offs.... no probs whatsoever. Now saving up for some Grado cans to test the BM2 / Arcam A19's dedicated headphone output. All the best.

[Theadmans]

Hi there - no the deben just has a permanent 12v ( bullet type connector ) - no usb at all.

I have the 4 Ah...wishing I bought the 8 !!!! Damn.

No drop outs / no power offs.... no probs whatsoever. Now saving up for some Grado cans to test the BM2 / Arcam A19's dedicated headphone output. All the best.

...yeah that is what I thought - no USB. Also to get the same level of power as the Anker 20000mah - the Deben 22Ah costs £229.95 ....I had better start saving too !!! BTW I was lucky enough to win an online HiFi forum competition to win a pair of Sennnheiser HD650s - sound great with the BM2.

[orbscure]

Pete - I ordered my battery 4th December 2013 - did you order yours before or after this date ?

Ordered via Amazon on the 14th Jan Adam, so it does appear that later batches are the issue... surely your entitled to a refund if its a known issue?

[Theadmans]

I take it that was January 14th 2013 not 2014 ?

I also remember another chap who said he had one on here ages ago and had no problems - so yes it looks like they have introduced a mod to do the Auto shutoff after 20 minutes on the more recent batteries.

[MartinT]

Going back to the Ankaka battery, I think I mentioned already that it doesn't need turning on: it presents 12V output at all times. In fact, if I do turn it on and the display shows status, it times out a little while later. Never cuts off the DC, though. Strange, but it works for me!

[orbscure]

I take it that was January 14th 2013 not 2014 ?

Sorry Adam... it was 2014 & via Amazon... and I meant to say earlier batches appear to have an issue...

[CSM]

Well that is a good find Aleem - basically confirms that I have one of the batch that switches off after 22 minutes or so. Pete must have lucked out and got one of the good batch that doesn't turn off. Looks like a lottery as to whether this battery will work

I tried the USB outlet to my Squeezebox Touch hoping that would keep the battery running - but found it did not work as on a seperate circuits (as confirmed in your post). As you know I ended up with the Heath Robinson arrangement of powering a 12v Bulb - which works well but drains the battery faster than necessary.

I even spent some time this morning - before I read your post - retesting the battery (without the bulb) and as before the thing shuts down after 20 minutes or so.


Not a problem mate.

I've emailed anker support and will wait to see what they have to say.

[John]

This works with the Bushmaster and Bantam Gold at the moment have it powering both

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/KDQ7-EU-plug-9800mAh-DC-12V-Super-Rechargeable-Lithium-ion-Battery-SPC-2261-/400584675790?pt=UK_ConsumerElectronics_Batteries_S M&hash=item5d44b511ce

[Theadmans]

Thanks Aleem - in fact I emailed them myself this morning as well (certainly helped a lot knowing that others were experiencing the same problems).

Now Pete has confirmed his later ordered battery is OK - I would like to think they would replace mine with the new model (this assumes of course that Pete's order was not satisfied from older stock than mine).

[John]

What I notice is that more powerful batteries seem to have a bit more detail

[CSM]

This works with the Bushmaster and Bantam Gold at the moment have it powering both

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/KDQ7-EU-plug-9800mAh-DC-12V-Super-Rechargeable-Lithium-ion-Battery-SPC-2261-/400584675790?pt=UK_ConsumerElectronics_Batteries_S M&hash=item5d44b511ce


What do you think of it?

I think stan said the same about higher capacity batteries performing better - something perhaps to do with discharge rate or something.

@Theadmans, Let's see who anker respond to first should we (if they do)?!

[John]

Its good I think they do a 20000mah version that might be worth a shout but prefer my 12ah battery as has a bit more detail and cost around the same
I also used a 7ah battery

[CSM]

thanks for that - though can't seem to find their 20,000mAh charger, only the 9,800 one.

Kind of a no brainer given the improvement it'll bring huh?

[John]

Found this http://www.dhgate.com/product/20000mah-12v-battery-pack-12v-explosion-proof/137673894.html
Worth checking ebay in a weeks time as have seen them advertised in the past
As I say in my system I prefer the higher capacity battery Quite simple to wire up But I prefer it to my 7ah battery

[bostod]

I will get one of these battery packs to upgrade my Bushmaster 1. when i get this upgrade would there be any point getting the Bushmaster 2. Am i right in thinking the main difference is in the power stage anyway?

[magiccarpetride]

I will get one of these battery packs to upgrade my Bushmaster 1. when i get this upgrade would there be any point getting the Bushmaster 2. Am i right in thinking the main difference is in the power stage anyway?

1. There are all the points you care to bring up when considering upgrading from Bushmaster I to Bushmaster II. Simply put, Bushmaster II is in a completely different league.

2. You're wrong in thinking that. Using the exact same power supply on both DACs reveal that Bushmaster II is indescribably superior.

[John]

I think the Bushmaster 1 needs a higher voltage (I might be wrong) so would not be ideal partnering with 12v battery

[Stresss42]

1. There are all the points you care to bring up when considering upgrading from Bushmaster I to Bushmaster II. Simply put, Bushmaster II is in a completely different league.

2. You're wrong in thinking that. Using the exact same power supply on both DACs reveal that Bushmaster II is indescribably superior.

Completely agree - 100 %.

[MartinT]

I think the Bushmaster 1 needs a higher voltage (I might be wrong) so would not be ideal partnering with 12v battery

They both come with a 12V power supply.

[John]

Sorry as I said was not sure as did not own the mk 1

[zilch0md]

Does anyone know if the 11V-to-15V DC power jack at the rear of the BM2 is fused, internally?

(I've searched this thread, but the strings "fuse" and "fuze" cannot be found.)

If not, I will want to add an inline fuse on the + side of my battery leads, which would then beg the question, "How many amps?"

With a maximum power consumption of 2W (per the photos I've seen of printing below the power jack), and a 9V regulator, I'm thinking the BM2 can't pull more than about 250mA normally, so a 1-Amp fast-blow fuse would probably be OK, if not something less than that.

I would appreciate any information on this.

Thanks!

Mike

[John]

A few people use 5 amp fuses

[zilch0md]

A few people use 5 amp fuses

Thanks John,

I appreciate the feedback, but that's pretty high for such an efficient device. A 5A fuse would surely prevent damage from a dead short somewhere inside, but I wonder if their battery packs can even deliver 5 amps continuous.

Those small, 12V LiPo packs that I've read about in this thread, probably can't generate more than 2A, continuous, but a big, lead-acid car battery could certainly deliver some arc-welding amperage. Perhaps the 5A fuse is a good idea if capacitors in the BM2 temporarily pull a greater than normal load at power-on - a good reason for slow-blow fuses.

Well, I could always try testing with a 0.5A fuse and working my way up. :-)

Mike

[wee tee cee]

I run a three amp from a car battery to two temple mono blocks/BM2 without any issues- for a number of months.Fuses are a lot cheaper to replace than amps/dacs!!!!!

[zilch0md]

Roger that!

Well, even though no one has said so, overtly, with several people using in-line fuses on their battery packs, I think it's safe to assume that the BM2 does not have an internal fuse. So... I'll add one to my power leads.

Thanks,

Mike

[StanleyB]

Roger that!

Well, even though no one has said so, overtly, with several people using in-line fuses on their battery packs, I think it's safe to assume that the BM2 does not have an internal fuse.
:scratch:

[zilch0md]

:scratch:

Oh, hey Stan!

May I assume your smiley means that the BM2 actually does have an internal fuse?

And may I also assume that there's no need to put a fuse between the battery and the BM2's power jack?

I should have asked you, in the first place. :doh:

Mike

[StanleyB]

Have you taken the time to read the instruction leaflet that came with the DAC? I spent many hours writing it.

[zilch0md]

It hasn't arrived yet. Is there a link from which I might download it?

Thanks!

mike

[StanleyB]

Orders are posted, not downloaded.

[zilch0md]

:scratch:

[zilch0md]

Oh, I think I've figured out what you mean...

The manual cannot be downloaded. It only comes with BM2, by post.

I suppose I'll have to wait for the manual to arrive to get an answer to my fuse question, but that's OK.

Thank you,

Mike

[CSM]

I asked anker and they said that they couldn't help me as they don't know about the current drawn from the device.

There's only one way to find out and I'll be getting one of these soon!

[zilch0md]

Hi CSM,


I asked anker and they said that they couldn't help me as they don't know about the current drawn from the device.

There's only one way to find out and I'll be getting one of these soon!

You might want to write Anker back and tell them that the screen-printing under the power jack on the back of the BM2 indicates it pulls a maximum of 2 Watts continuous. At 15V that would be a current draw of something on the order of 0.133 Amps (= 2W / 15V), or perhaps it's more like 0.222 Amps (= 2W / 9V). It's a very efficient device, in either case!

I'm not sure which Anker product you're considering, but my Anker Astro3 can supply 3A continuous to the 12V jack - which I should think is more than enough for the BM2, but I'm eager to stand corrected if anyone knows otherwise.

Thanks,

Mike

[CSM]

Hi CSM,



You might want to write Anker back and tell them that the screen-printing under the power jack on the back of the BM2 indicates it pulls a maximum of 2 Watts continuous. At 15V that would be a current draw of something on the order of 0.133 Amps (= 2W / 15V), or perhaps it's more like 0.222 Amps (= 2W / 9V). It's a very efficient device, in either case!

I'm not sure which Anker product you're considering, but my Anker Astro3 can supply 3A continuous to the 12V jack - which I should think is more than enough for the BM2, but I'm eager to stand corrected if anyone knows otherwise.

Thanks,

Mike


Thanks for that.
This is what they said:

''Thanks for your email with your concern.

Theoretically, the Pro2 20000 mAh will not automatically turn off as it's LED indicators will remain lit when the connecting devices are fully recharged. But this depends on the actual devices and cases. Which is not easy to identify further. But this battery can be charged and charge other device at the same time.

Sorry for not being very helpful on this problem, thanks for your time and kindly input!''



It doesn't look like the anker astro3 has 12v output, not the recent model anyway. Can't find the old one.

I'll be getting the astro pro2 20aH and see what's what. Don't work, I'll return it.

[zilch0md]

It's weird what they've done with their model numbers.

When I ordered this...

http://www.amazon.com/Consumer-Electronic-Multi-Voltage-Camcoders-Recorders/dp/B00ENFCBTQ/

... it was called the Anker Astro3 - and it offers two 5V ports and a user-selectable 9V/12V port.

But I just found the new Astro 3E that you must be referencing...

http://www.amazon.com/10000mAh-Smartphones-USB-charged-Adapters--Lightning/dp/B009USAJCC/

... which only has 5V ports. Bummer!

But the 20,000mAh Pro2 should do the trick!

http://www.amazon.com/20000mAh-Ultra-High-Multi-Voltage-Notebooks-Compatible/dp/B00B45EOYS/

I'm looking forward to hearing your feedback on it.

Thanks!

Mike

[CSM]

Hmmm, I see.

Yea, I'll have it by midweek or something and I'll post back on what happens

[zilch0md]

User-posted Anker Astro Pro2 photos, I found online...

The build quality looks pretty good!

http://cdn.head-fi.org/a/a2/a273ab0c_image.jpeg

http://cdn.head-fi.org/9/9c/9ca26fde_image.jpeg

http://cdn.head-fi.org/2/28/2899b108_image.jpeg

[Theadmans]

Yes the above pictured Battery is the one I continue to use with my split cable to bulb - with power going to both my BM2 and Squeezebox Touch.

It really is a nicely made unit and sounds superb (just a shame I have to power a bulb as well !)

My email to Anker has as yet gone unanswered . I told them that the BM2 only requires between 40 - 60 Ma (a figure I got from Stan). Unfortunately the Power Off switches in for sources less than 120Ma according to stuff I have read on other forums. However, would still like to know why some batches of this battery don't switch off and some do.

Aleem - I'll be very interested to see if your battery switches off after 20-30 minutes with the BM2. Just keep the BM2 in non sleep mode so you can see if the Blue LEDs go out. If yours is OK - I will start to think they have changed something on the the latest model.

[zilch0md]

Hi Adam,


Yes the above pictured Battery is the one I continue to use with my split cable to bulb - with power going to both my BM2 and Squeezebox Touch.

It really is a nicely made unit and sounds superb (just a shame I have to power a bulb as well !)

My email to Anker has as yet gone unanswered . I told them that the BM2 only requires between 40 - 60 Ma (a figure I got from Stan). Unfortunately the Power Off switches in for sources less than 120Ma according to stuff I have read on other forums. However, would still like to know why some batches of this battery don't switch off and some do.

-snip-



Thanks for that current draw figure - 40 to 60 mA - that's amazing! This tells me I'll probably be fine with the capacity of my (obsolete) 10,000 mAh Anker Astro3, which can output 12V.

I had to research this thread to learn what you meant by using a "split cable to bulb." (I'm still catching up.) That's interesting. I really don't know what my smaller Anker will do with a 40 to 60 mA load. Hopefully, it will not switch off...

I have a few days yet, before the BM2 arrives.

Thanks,

Mike

[Covenant]

I have just ordered an Astro Pro2 from Amazon. I want to use it to power my BM2 and Squeezebox Touch. At the moment the BM2 is powered by a linear supply delivering 12v, I was hoping to reuse this to permanently power the Anker Astro Pro2. The linear supply is variable, what should I set it to?

[zilch0md]

Hi Covenant,

The Anker Astro Pro2 will include a switchmode supply that should have a label on it stating both the DC output voltage and the amperage it can handle.

Your best bet is to wait for the Anker Astro Pro2 to arrive and then see if you can set your linear supply to that output voltage. If your linear supply does not offer enough amperage, you won't be able to kill two birds with one stone.

Lastly, of course, you'll want to make sure that the polarity is correct on the power connector coming from your linear supply, to be the same as the polarity on the power connector coming from the Astro Pro2 switchmode PSU.

Mike

[Theadmans]

I have just ordered an Astro Pro2 from Amazon. I want to use it to power my BM2 and Squeezebox Touch. At the moment the BM2 is powered by a linear supply delivering 12v, I was hoping to reuse this to permanently power the Anker Astro Pro2. The linear supply is variable, what should I set it to?

I've just had a look at the power adapter for my Astro Pro2 - it says output 18.5V 2A. There is also a polarity diagram with + going to the centre pin.

Jerry can you let me know how you get on with the Pro2 - I would like to know if you experience the power switching off to the BM2 after 20 minutes or so. Aleem is also getting one - I want to try to find out if Anker have fixed this issue on their latest batteries.

[Covenant]

Thanks Adam,
I think 18.5v is doable. Sure, I will add to the pool of knowledge and let you know if it switches off suddenly.

[zilch0md]

Jerry,

I get the feeling that my last post was stating the obvious to you. Sorry about that. I'm glad Adam could give you the numbers off the label - in advance.

Mike

[Covenant]

Jerry,

I get the feeling that my last post was stating the obvious to you. Sorry about that. I'm glad Adam could give you the numbers off the label - in advance.

Mike
No problem Michael. I just wanted to know that I hadn't wasted a lot of time and effort building a linear supply.

[zilch0md]

No problem Michael. I just wanted to know that I hadn't wasted a lot of time and effort building a linear supply.

Oh, wow. I only dabble at soldering (cables and power connectors and such).

What are the specs for your DIY linear supply?

Mike

[Covenant]

Steady on Mike, all I did was buy a pre-build circuit board and bang it in a box with a transformer :lol: . Its all joined together with a connector block so there is no soldering. Its worked ok for a few years though.

[zilch0md]

Steady on Mike, all I did was buy a pre-build circuit board and bang it in a box with a transformer :lol: . Its all joined together with a connector block so there is no soldering. Its worked ok for a few years though.

That's even more impressive! :)

[CSM]

Amazon have delayed my delivery. I'll have it by the weekend and will report back then

[NRG]

My Ankaka battery has finally arrived. DC output is permantly on and doesn't turn off after 20 mins. The supplied plug fits the BM firmly. As expected the DC output is very clean and surprisingly the SMPS is also very clean with just under 2mv of sawtooth noise on its output.

More interesting though is the DC output suffers noticeably when the battery is on charge or the PSU is simply connected...there is more noise on the output and the voltage level bounces about. Think I'll be using it without the charger connected.

[keiths]

My Ankaka battery has finally arrived. DC output is permantly on and doesn't turn off after 20 mins. The supplied plug fits the BM firmly. As expected the DC output is very clean and surprisingly the SMPS is also very clean with just under 2mv of sawtooth noise on its output.

More interesting though is the DC output suffers noticeably when the battery is on charge or the PSU is simply connected...there is more noise on the output and the voltage level bounces about. Think I'll be using it without the charger connected.

I always disconnect the charger once my Ankaka battery has charged. A full charge runs my Bushmaster 2 and my Musical Fidelity v-link 2 (via the 5v usb output and a dual-conduit usb cable) for ages. This battery is terrific value.

[Richardl]

I've not noticed much difference plugged in or not.
Why don't you do like me and use a timer to just charge when you're not using the battery.
I only paid about £3 for mine.

[zilch0md]

I received my Bushmaster MKII yesterday and I'm completely smitten. It's wonderful with both my Sennheiser HD600 and HD800.

I'm supplying SPDIF from a Resonessence Concero (converting USB to SPDIF while bypassing its ESS9023 DAC).

44.1/16 and 96/24 WAV on SD cards > Windows 7 > Foobar 2000 w/ WASAPI event > USB > Moon Audio Blue Dragon USB Cable > Resonessence Concero > SPDIF > Emotiva XDRCA Cable > Beresford Bushmaster MkII TC-7533 DAC + Amp > Toxic Cables Silver Poison > HD800 (or HD600)

http://cdn.head-fi.org/9/96/96f30ce2_IMG_1212_Resonessence_Concero_as_USB_to_S PDIF_to_Beresford_Bushmaster_MkII_TC-7533_Front_x960.jpeg

http://cdn.head-fi.org/7/79/79c4dcca_IMG_1212_Resonessence_Concero_as_USB_to_S PDIF_to_Beresford_Bushmaster_MkII_TC-7533_Rear_x960.jpeg

Hint: All four Status LEDs are lit because it was scanning during a long exposure. ;)

I tried using my no longer available, 10,000 mAh Anker Astro Pro with the BM2.

http://blog.all-things-photography.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/Anker-Power-Pack-3-300x300.jpg

It has two 5V ports and a switchable 9V - 12V port, but just as with reports from those who have the 20,000 mAh Anker Astro Pro2, it turns itself off very quickly - apparently because the BM2 is pulling too little current (at 40 to 60 mA) to be detected by the battery's auto power-off feature.

So that's not going to work...

... but this works really well:

Energizer XP8000 (8000 mAh)

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/61R4mGfi81L._SL1500_.jpg

http://cdn.head-fi.org/5/55/5560d5ab_XP8000-jacks.jpeg

I've had mine for over two years and it has held up very well.

I've been using it with the BM2 for about three hours, thus far this evening - with no problems. It "sounds" great, too!

Like most of them, this comes with several cables and adapters. For the BM2, I'm using the green-tipped cable, attached to the green power jack, with an "NB04" adapter at the end of the cable - to fit the jack on the BM2. (The NB04 adpater is included with the XP8000.)

Mike

[MartinT]

My Ankaka battery has finally arrived. DC output is permantly on and doesn't turn off after 20 mins. The supplied plug fits the BM firmly. As expected the DC output is very clean and surprisingly the SMPS is also very clean with just under 2mv of sawtooth noise on its output.

My findings exactly, Neal. I reported on the 12V output being permanently on, irrespective of the 'power' switch, but you're the first to confirm it. I have my Paul Hynes linear PSU charging it and don't really notice any difference between the battery on charge and stand-alone when powering the BM2.

[MartinT]

Why don't you do like me and use a timer to just charge when you're not using the battery.

What an excellent idea. I have a few timers lying around.

[zilch0md]

Yes, that's brilliant! Thanks for that Richardl !

Mike

[CSM]

Confirmation also that my anker astro pro2 stays on.

Yep, no auto switch off here!

[Theadmans]

Confirmation also that my anker astro pro2 stays on.

Yep, no auto switch off here!

OK thanks Aleem - can only assume that they have changed the latest batch.

[NRG]

Now had a bit of time to compare the battery to my LDA PSU.....there's a hairs breadth between them IMHO and I doubt I could tell the difference on a blind test. If pressed I'd say the LDA PSU is a touch more refined and smooth, just a bit more preferable than the battery...but I reserve the right to change my mind depending on the weather ;)

Considering the price it's a very good result for the battery.

[Covenant]

My Anker Astro Pro2 stays on as well, its been powering the Bushmaster Mk2 for a couple of hours now without a hiccup. Very impressed with the build quality and its feeling of solidity. I haven't commented much on the BM2 as I thought it only marginally better than my modified 7520. The Anker takes it to a new level though. Its so quiet between passages of music that I am aware of the transformer hum from my amp more than I was before.

[zilch0md]

Thanks for that report, Jerry.

Going on how long my 8,000 mAh Energizer XP8000 is lasting on a single charge, I should think you could power the BM2 for hundreds of hours (no exaggeration) without recharging the 20,000 mAh Astro Pro2.

Mike

[StanleyB]

A 8000mA battery would give a theoretical playing time of about 200 hours. That's 200 days if you play music for 1 hour a day, or roughly eight days if you never switch the DAC off.

My 20000mAH Ankaka battery was last charged in November.

[John]

I find with my 9800mAH battery pack after about 6 to 8 hours the sound is not as good

[Theadmans]

My Anker Astro Pro2 stays on as well, its been powering the Bushmaster Mk2 for a couple of hours now without a hiccup. Very impressed with the build quality and its feeling of solidity. I haven't commented much on the BM2 as I thought it only marginally better than my modified 7520. The Anker takes it to a new level though. Its so quiet between passages of music that I am aware of the transformer hum from my amp more than I was before.

Thanks Jerry - interesting that your battery stays on too (like Aleem also reported). I think I will have another go at Anker and see if they will replace mine (after all I only bought it in December).

[bigmarty]

Hi folks received my 20000mAH Ankaka battery from Singapore on Saturday after a long wait, but it was well worth it. This really takes the Bushmaster to another level (your a genius Stan) what I wasn't expecting was a much bigger sound stage :eek: more layers and better separation. I even found that I had to turn the volume down slightly. Between Saturday afternoon and Sunday I replayed all my favorite music again with a big grin on my face :) :) :)
My only grip is that It doesn't look as good and as we'll made as some other battery's on here but it does a great job.

Marty:D

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb9/martinattullymet/IMG_1365.jpg

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb9/martinattullymet/IMG_1361.jpg

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb9/martinattullymet/IMG_1359.jpg

[zilch0md]

I'm happy for you, Marty!

Batteries are cool.

:carrot:

[bigmarty]

As a wee aside could any one please tell me whether I could run my Wadia 170i with the same battery, I'm a bit of a numpty regards electrics here are some details from the switching power adapter,
AC 100-240v. 50/60Hz. 0.55a
DC. 12V, 2A
The lead going into Wadia is S-Video.
Many thanks for your help.

Marty :D

[StanleyB]

It looks like a suitable candidate for battery power.

[bigmarty]

It looks like a suitable candidate for battery power.

Thanks Stan, Ohh sounds interesting I was actually thinking I would get a separate battery for the Wadia 170i as it also re-charges my iPod as well. Stan would it be easy enough to add the connection for the battery and the S video connection.

Many thanks

Marty :D

[CSM]

OK thanks Aleem - can only assume that they have changed the latest batch.

Not a problem.

I've tested its impact on the headphone output especially and I'm well pleased!

Wiith the beyer T1's the difference is especially noticeable.

[Ikemen]

Admittedly I have not read the whole thread, nor understand electronics very well, but does the Bushmaster lack some aspect of design that is making the use of batteries necessary. Perhaps decent regulation is missing from the board?

I only ask since I wonder if these results would translate to other products besides the Bushmaster (retiring my Beresford Gatorised Caiman to use a Najda DSP board).

[StanleyB]

Admittedly I have not read the whole thread, nor understand electronics very well, but does the Bushmaster lack some aspect of design that is making the use of batteries necessary. Perhaps decent regulation is missing from the board?
The Bushmaster MKII regulation is superior to any DAC you can mention. The regulator noise floor is below that of any of the three pin regulators that are fitted as stock in any DAC I have looked into or seen an internal picture of. Only the custom made Paul Haynes regulators can surpass the regulator performance in the Bushmaster MKII.

The design aspect does not make it necessary to use batteries. Far from it. What the Bushmaster MKII does is to offer an additional method of powering the DAC without having to worry about any problems associated with a connection to the mains. Other DACs that do offer a battery supply option sell a battery pack that costs more than the Bushmaster MKII. My method of doing it is to cut the cost if battery power is something the user wishes to experiment with.

[Ikemen]

Good to know Stan, thanks for the feedback.

[magiccarpetride]

Admittedly I have not read the whole thread, nor understand electronics very well, but does the Bushmaster lack some aspect of design that is making the use of batteries necessary. Perhaps decent regulation is missing from the board?

I only ask since I wonder if these results would translate to other products besides the Bushmaster (retiring my Beresford Gatorised Caiman to use a Najda DSP board).

I'm in the same boat, i.e. not understanding electronics. My cargo cult interpretation of what's going on with BM II and the Ankaka battery is that BM II has been (allegedly) built to approach the much coveted 'straight wire' pot of gold at the end of the audio rainbow. Once we approximate the straight wire ideal, what becomes more apparent is the dirty electrical noise that is unavoidably always present in the average household mains power supply. Switching to the Ankaka battery bypasses that noise, and hence the sound emerges clear as a bell.

Beautiful pairing, Stan!

Based on these observations, I am now almost convinced that if I could somehow switch all my electronic components to the battery power, the sound would be incredibly more accurate and life-like. The only remaining source of noise will then be the RFI, and there are ways to deal with that as well. But I'll cross that bridge when I get to it...

[Richardl]

I'm in the same boat, i.e. not understanding electronics. My cargo cult interpretation of what's going on with BM II and the Ankaka battery is that BM II has been (allegedly) built to approach the much coveted 'straight wire' pot of gold at the end of the audio rainbow. Once we approximate the straight wire ideal, what becomes more apparent is the dirty electrical noise that is unavoidably always present in the average household mains power supply. Switching to the Ankaka battery bypasses that noise, and hence the sound emerges clear as a bell.

Beautiful pairing, Stan!

Based on these observations, I am now almost convinced that if I could somehow switch all my electronic components to the battery power, the sound would be incredibly more accurate and life-like. The only remaining source of noise will then be the RFI, and there are ways to deal with that as well. But I'll cross that bridge when I get to it...

That's how my system is now, as well as the BM2, I've just ordered a Bantam gold amp to run my front 2 channels, I did have Bantam monoblocks to run my front and centre channels, but I'll use the monoblocks for the rears and centre now, I've also got the Ankaka battery running my Angle audio phono stage, that's 6 devices run off the one battery, my setup has never sounded as good as it does now.

Any device that can be run off a battery responds really well, in my opinion. I might try hooking up my Mede8er digital streamer as well.

[MartinT]

Based on these observations, I am now almost convinced that if I could somehow switch all my electronic components to the battery power, the sound would be incredibly more accurate and life-like.

Try a regenerator, Alex. My PS Audio P10 takes me close to total rejection of mains-borne noise and approaches running a big power amp on battery.

[Ikemen]

Hi guys, your observations mirror comments I have read elsewhere, particularly regarding mains quality. Time of day can make a big difference to some systems I hear, depending on neighbour's washing machine and the like.

I did try an SLA years ago (for my amp, or was it the Caiman?) but do not recall it benefitting on my system then. These chargers that Stan is encouraging look more interesting and convenient than the last time I experimented. As my system develops this may be worth a revisit.

[Theadmans]

Thought some of you guys with the Anker 20000 mah battery might be interested in the response I finally got from Anker re : shutting down on the BM after 20 minutes :-

"We have not changed anything on the Astro Pro 20000 silver battery. It has always been set with a minimum current draw of 50mA (USB port) / 80mA (DC port). Nothing has been changed."

...so as I know the BM2 only draws 40 - 60 mA and the threshold before switch off of the battery is 80mA - how come all users of this battery don't have the switch off problem ?

They are also saying "nothing has changed" on the battery so they have not amended anything which would make any batteries different to others.

All very strange - guess I will have to choose another brand of battery. :scratch:

[Darren66]

Intocircuit Power Castle Series PC26000 26000mAh Multi-Voltage 5V/12V/16V/19V Laptop was one I was looking at but then it seemed on the thread that the anker was now OK so, I have ordered one should be here the w/end.Hopefully I will be lucky,I wonder if they will allow me to return if it does cut out.

[brian2957]

I think you can return the battery within 7 days for whatever reason you choose as long as it's in pristine condition Darren . http://www.which.co.uk/consumer-rights/regulation/distance-selling-regulations

[Old George]

Hi Chaps,

I spotted this on Amazon UK. 21000mAh lithium polymer battery, variable voltage 5V, 8.4V, 9.5V, 12V, 16V, 19V or 24V.
What do you good folk think?

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Powertraveller-Powergorilla-Multi-Voltage-Portable-Charger/dp/B001FQP1MK/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1391686538&sr=1-1&keywords=gorilla+battery

[Clive]

Thought some of you guys with the Anker 20000 mah battery might be interested in the response I finally got from Anker re : shutting down on the BM after 20 minutes :-

"We have not changed anything on the Astro Pro 20000 silver battery. It has always been set with a minimum current draw of 50mA (USB port) / 80mA (DC port). Nothing has been changed."

...so as I know the BM2 only draws 40 - 60 mA and the threshold before switch off of the battery is 80mA - how come all users of this battery don't have the switch off problem ?

They are also saying "nothing has changed" on the battery so they have not amended anything which would make any batteries different to others.

All very strange - guess I will have to choose another brand of battery. :scratch:
It sounds like the BM current draw is on the cusp on the cutoff for the battery. The cutoff point is probably wide tolerance and this is quite reasonable considering the intended purpose of the battery. It does however suggest that only a very low wattage light bulb or high value fixed resistor is all that's required to fix the issue.

[Theadmans]

Intocircuit Power Castle Series PC26000 26000mAh Multi-Voltage 5V/12V/16V/19V Laptop was one I was looking at but then it seemed on the thread that the anker was now OK so, I have ordered one should be here the w/end.Hopefully I will be lucky,I wonder if they will allow me to return if it does cut out.

Yes you might be lucky - a couple of people have them working OK. Stan has told me today that he suspects the sensor in the Anker that detects the current is probably innacurate. So if you luck out and get a battery that over estimates the current draw then it works - otherwise you wind up with one like mine that chops the power after 20 minutes.

[Covenant]

I suppose the best thing is to use the USB for extra power consumption. Great if you have a squeezebox like me. I sent off for a USB to 2.5mm plug but the one they have sent has the smallest plug I have ever seen-must be less than 1mm diameter. No response from the supplier to my query yet....

[Theadmans]

It sounds like the BM current draw is on the cusp on the cutoff for the battery. The cutoff point is probably wide tolerance and this is quite reasonable considering the intended purpose of the battery. It does however suggest that only a very low wattage light bulb or high value fixed resistor is all that's required to fix the issue.

- Yes Clive I am sure I am very close and the 12v 5 watt use is probably wasting my battery more than necessary. This is the bulb I currently use :-

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/BLB34-UNIVERSAL-SIDE-LIGHT-BULB-HOLDER-12V-5W-NEW-/110712268973?pt=UK_Motorcycle_Parts&hash=item19c6f728ad

...do you know of a similar bulb that has lower wattage (I like the fact this one comes pre-wired as it makes it easier for a numpty like me to install).

[Darren66]

I suppose the best thing is to use the USB for extra power consumption. Great if you have a squeezebox like me. I sent off for a USB to 2.5mm plug but the one they have sent has the smallest plug I have ever seen-must be less than 1mm diameter. No response from the supplier to my query yet....

Hi Jerry I'm not 100% sure but I think someone may have tried this. Not wishing to read through all 34pages hopefully someone can confirm this or hopefully I'm wrong because that could be a way round the problem.

[Theadmans]

Hi Jerry I'm not 100% sure but I think someone may have tried this. Not wishing to read through all 34pages hopefully someone can confirm this or hopefully I'm wrong because that could be a way round the problem.

...Yes tried that method some time ago - sadly the USB appears to be on a different circuit of the battery to the 12v DC. So both USB and DC ports have their own individual sensors USB (at 50 mA) and 12v DC (at 80 mA).

I had the idea to put my Squeezebox Touch on the USB port to keep the battery running. This obviously did not work but it did inspire Martin - whose eye's lit up when I suggested it !! This resulted in the whole thread about running the BM + SBT from the same battery - a nice little bonus.

I now run my BM2 + SBT (with Screen on) + 12v 5watt Motorcycle Side Light simultaneously from the same Anker Battery. I get about 2 good nights listening sessions before having to recharge.

[Theadmans]

I suppose the best thing is to use the USB for extra power consumption. Great if you have a squeezebox like me. I sent off for a USB to 2.5mm plug but the one they have sent has the smallest plug I have ever seen-must be less than 1mm diameter. No response from the supplier to my query yet....

Jerry - this is the lead I use to connect my Touch to the Anker battery :-

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/121128492167?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649

...bit pricey but seems to be of decent quality.

[Covenant]

Cheers Adam but that is no longer available.
Does this one look ok? http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/7-Cube-U30GT-MINI-U18GT-Elite-Android-Tablet-PC-USB-to-2-5mm-Charger-Cable-NEW-/251373929322?_trksid=p2054897.l4275

[zilch0md]

Here's my all battery-powered headphone rig - with the TBI MG3 speaker amp giving the Sennheiser more authority than can be had by the Bushmaster MkII on its own.

But make no mistake, the Bushmaster is making all of this possible, as I can't enjoy the normally too bright Sennhesier HD800 when the MG3 (or any other solid state amp) is fed by other DACs I've tried...

http://cdn.head-fi.org/9/95/95b5ca6d_Concero--Bushmaster_MkII--TBI_MG3--HD800_x960_Annotated.jpeg

And here's a video tour, just for fun:


https://vimeo.com/86082053

The song is Please Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood, performed by Meshell Ndegeocello, from the album A Dedication to Nina Simone.

Mike

[Theadmans]

Cheers Adam but that is no longer available.
Does this one look ok? http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/7-Cube-U30GT-MINI-U18GT-Elite-Android-Tablet-PC-USB-to-2-5mm-Charger-Cable-NEW-/251373929322?_trksid=p2054897.l4275

...not sure about that one - the end looks a bit small - you need 5.5mm outer diameter and 2.5mm inner diameter - perhaps query with the seller if the diameter of 2.5mm refers to the inner or outer diameter.

[Covenant]

How about this one Adam?
http://www.amazon.co.uk/StarTech-feet-Barrel-Power-Cable/dp/B003MQO96U/ref=sr_1_15?ie=UTF8&qid=1391718941&sr=8-15&keywords=USB+to+2.5mm++plug

[Theadmans]

How about this one Adam?
http://www.amazon.co.uk/StarTech-feet-Barrel-Power-Cable/dp/B003MQO96U/ref=sr_1_15?ie=UTF8&qid=1391718941&sr=8-15&keywords=USB+to+2.5mm++plug

Sorry close bit not quite right Type M is 5.5mm outer and 2.1mm inner (not 2.5mm inner).

..I think you need Type N according to the chart in this Wikipedia article :-

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coaxial_power_connector


- this lead looks OK to me :-

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/StarTech-com-1m-USB-to-Type-N-Barrel-5V-DC-Power-Cable-USB-A-to-5-5mm-DC-/370992293027?pt=UK_Computing_USB_Cables&hash=item5660dd24a3

[Covenant]

Cheers Adam, well done!

[MartinT]

I had the idea to put my Squeezebox Touch on the USB port to keep the battery running. This obviously did not work but it did inspire Martin - whose eye's lit up when I suggested it !! This resulted in the whole thread about running the BM + SBT from the same battery - a nice little bonus.

Indeed, the Touch also sounds excellent on battery. Sadly its consumption is way higher than the BM2 so it now has its own 5V (phone) battery which will last for several hours of listening. This has eased the strain on the main (Ankaka) battery and everything sounds good. I never had the timeout problem as the Ankaka 12V is permanently on irrespective of the power switch.

[StanleyB]

I never had the timeout problem as the Ankaka 12V is permanently on irrespective of the power switch.
Indeed, which is why I recommended it as a high end solution. The only other 12V battery that I have recommended in the past (call it the midrange solution, is something like http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/300954998440?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1423.l2649

[Darren66]

Received anker pro 2 20000 mAH battery this morning performed full charge,just tried it cut out around 20 min mark.So it seems it is just
pot luck.I ordered mine before Adam had the email back from anker about a day before,should have waited. inpatients costs.

[Theadmans]

Received anker pro 2 20000 mAH battery this morning performed full charge,just tried it cut out around 20 min mark.So it seems it is just
pot luck.I ordered mine before Adam had the email back from anker about a day before,should have waited. inpatients costs.

Sorry to hear this Darren - you are the first one for a while to confirm they have the same problem as me. I had wondered if the latest batch of batteries had been amended in some way. However, like Stan says it's probably down to innacurate current sensing in some of the Anker batteries which allow them to work. You got an accurate one - which unfortunately means it shuts down after 20 minutes.

Let me know if you need any advice on the split power lead to bulb solution.

[StanleyB]

Stick a 12Volt Grain of Wheat bulb in parallel to the DC lead coming from the battery to the DAC. They come with a lead on them. Do a search on ebay for those bulbs.

[Theadmans]

Indeed, which is why I recommended it as a high end solution. The only other 12V battery that I have recommended in the past (call it the midrange solution, is something like http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/300954998440?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1423.l2649

Stan after my trials and tribulations with the Anker battery I may be interested in the Mid Range battery. I could keep the Anker for my Squeezebox Touch and use the Mid Range Battery for the BM2.

Have you ever done a listening comparison between the Ankaka and the Mid Range battery with the BM2 - is there much diffference in the sound quality you get between the two ?


Also this Grain of Wheat Bulb - will it deplete my battery more slowly than the 12v 5watt motorcycle side light I currently use ?

[StanleyB]

I prefer the Ankaka battery since it gives me the option to use a modified BMII on 16V. I need it for my HD800 and HD650. But it also has the convenience of a battery level indicator. The midrange battery pack is however not to be ignored. There is a 9600mA version of it as well on ebay. But the lack of a battery level indicator is a hindrance.
Sound wise I can't hear a difference. But my hearing is not a good source of reference.

[Theadmans]

I prefer the Ankaka battery since it gives me the option to use a modified BMII on 16V. I need it for my HD800 and HD650. But it also has the convenience of a battery level indicator. The midrange battery pack is however not to be ignored. There is a 9600mA version of it as well on ebay. But the lack of a battery level indicator is a hindrance.
Sound wise I can't hear a difference. But my hearing is not a good source of reference.

Thanks for that Stan - yes the lack of battery level indicator is a good point - not sure I could live without that.

It's my birthday next month so maybe an excuse to buy the Ankaka !

....and if I use the Grain of wheat bulb will it deplete my battery less than the 12v 5watt Motorcycle side light I currently use ?

[StanleyB]

A 5W 12V bulb would be drawing around 400mA. You really need something that would draw about 50 to 150mA if you wish to get longer playing times for the battery.

[Theadmans]

A 5W 12V bulb would be drawing around 400mA. You really need something that would draw about 50 to 150mA if you wish to get longer playing times for the battery.

Thanks Stan - I found an 80mA Grain of Wheat Bulb on eBay so I have bought it and will give a try - what a fount of knowledge you are !:)

[StanleyB]

Thanks Stan - I found an 80mA Grain of Wheat Bulb on eBay so I have bought it and will give a try - what a fount of knowledge you are !:)
The Grand Wazoo would disagree with you. He considers me a Bad bad man :D.

[The Grand Wazoo]

No, no......full of knowledge: absolutely, but still very, very naughty!

[wee tee cee]

I have the mid range battery pack Stan linked to, it sounds better than the PSU. I think a big car battery edges it sonically IMHO both on cans and full rig.

[zilch0md]

Here's my all battery-powered headphone rig ...

-snip-



That was short-lived!

http://cdn.head-fi.org/9/99/99f3bf2d_Battery-powered_Resonessence_Concero--Bushmaster_MkII--HD650_or_LCD-2_Annotated.jpeg

Long version here: http://www.head-fi.org/t/529140/show-us-your-head-fi-station-at-its-current-state-no-old-pictures-please/17010#post_10249801

Mike

[StanleyB]

Well I did say on more than one occasion that the HD800 works best on a specially modified BMII that is primarily dedicated to HD800 use :).

[zilch0md]

The HD800 is a demanding headphone, to be sure, but I'm so pleased with the BM2 > HD650 or LCD-2, I'm thinking I could sell my HD800 and never look back.

You've created a wonderful product, Stan - Thank you!

Mike

[StanleyB]

The HD800 is a demanding headphone, to be sure, but I'm so pleased with the BM2 > HD650 or LCD-2, I'm thinking I could sell my HD800 and never look back.
You won't be suffering from withdrawal symptoms if you gave up the HD800. I only use mine for R&D. For high quality music listening it is my Denon D7000 that gets a work out.

[zilch0md]

Oh no! I'm going to pretend I didn't read your D7000 recommendation - at least until I sell off some other gear.

:)

[StanleyB]

The D7000 is now NLA. So you missed the boat on that one.

[zilch0md]

I'm relieved to hear that, thanks!

:deceased:

[Darren66]

Thanks Stan - I found an 80mA Grain of Wheat Bulb on eBay so I have bought it and will give a try - what a fount of knowledge you are !:)

Hi Adam have you tried the new bulb yet and does it work.Still deciding weather to send the anker back or do the bulb trick.

Darren

[CSM]

You won't be suffering from withdrawal symptoms if you gave up the HD800. I only use mine for R&D. For high quality music listening it is my Denon D7000 that gets a work out.


Second that.

D7000 is something special, improved by lawton angle pads (not sure if he still sells them).

Sound nice, smooth and well fed from the bm2.

[NickB]

Hi

Just for info I have received my Anker 20000 battery from Amazon today. Charged up and has been running the Bushmaster for the last 3 hours without a single drop out.

She who must be obeyed agrees with me that the difference is "night and day" her words not mine.

Very lucky as I have a wife who not only understands my HiFi bug but enjoys listening to the system and is my biggest critic if I make a wrong move on the sound quality (and buys stuff for me as well) and no she doesn't have a sister :)

Nick

[orbscure]

She who must be obeyed agrees with me that the difference is "night and day" her words not mine. Very lucky as I have a wife who not only understands my HiFi bug but enjoys listening to the system and is my biggest critic if I make a wrong move on the sound quality (and buys stuff for me as well) and no she doesn't have a sister :)

Crikey Nick... you lucky b****r!!! Where did you get one of those? They are as rare as hen's teeth! :lol:

Pete

[Old George]

This looks like a re-badged Anker only with a bit more capacity and slightly cheaper...........CLICK (http://www.amazon.co.uk/Intocircuit-Multi-Voltage-Smartphone-Thunderbolt-connectors/dp/B00AV4M1LQ)

[CSM]

That looks exactly like a re-badged anker, yep.

[Theadmans]

Hi Adam have you tried the new bulb yet and does it work.Still deciding weather to send the anker back or do the bulb trick.

Darren

Hi Darren - yes got the grain of wheat bulb yesterday. Wired it up and tested - no power drops so certainly got enough power draw to keep the Bushmaster going on a split cable (this bulb is 80 mA BTW). Must have listened to the DAC for at least 3 hours yesterday. From a full charge five lights on - I only lost one light by the end of the evening. But bear in mind I also power my Squeezebox Touch (with screen switched) from the same Anker battery. So my guess is if you only want to power the DAC and bulb it should give you plently of listening time between charges.

[Darren66]

Hi Adam decided to keep the Anker.Ordered the bulb have you a link for the leads I need to get.

[Theadmans]

Darren - this is the lead you need.

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/2-Way-DC-Power-Splitter-Cable-Cord-for-CCTV-Camera-2-Male-1-Female-5-5mm-2-1mm-/390683268220?pt=UK_Computing_CablesConnectors_RL&hash=item5af689947c

You can use it joined to the standard lead supplied with the Anker battery. I found that I could poke one of the bulb wires down the centre of the jack socket and then wrap the other wire around the outside of the jack socket (check polarity to light bulb first). I then wrapped copious amounts of insulating tape around to keep it all in place.

The bulb gets pretty hot so I think it is best to mount it in something to avoid melting any adjacent wiring. Now I have the smaller grain of wheat bulb I have dispensed with the pepper pot housing which was much too big. I found a small plastic capsule in my son's toy box (the kind of thing you get small toy prizes in out from a machine) and have mounted the bulb in that for now. I just get a small red glow from the rear of my hi-fi rig - this is handy as a way of telling the bulb is on.

[Darren66]

Hi Adam thanks for that,all ordered.

[Covenant]

Would you believe it, after behaving itself impeccably for a week the Anker has started to shut down after 20 minutes! This is with the battery also powering the Touch as well as the BM2. I guess I will have to do the bulb thing as well.
I also find it annoying that the battery needs to be unplugged and reconnected to power the BM2. I guess that is something you have to live with for much better SQ.

[MartinT]

I guess that is something you have to live with for much better SQ.

Not really. I have the Ankaka battery charging off-hours on a timer and powering the BM2 at all times. The 12V is permanently enabled. There has been enough advice in here on which battery to purchase - Stan's original recommendation works flawlessly.

[Covenant]

I think the Anker problems are easily solvable, I didn't fancy the wait for international delivery.

[Theadmans]

Would you believe it, after behaving itself impeccably for a week the Anker has started to shut down after 20 minutes! This is with the battery also powering the Touch as well as the BM2. I guess I will have to do the bulb thing as well.
I also find it annoying that the battery needs to be unplugged and reconnected to power the BM2. I guess that is something you have to live with for much better SQ.

Sorry to hear that Jerry - the USB and 12v outputs on the Anker battery are on seperate circuits - so the fact that the Touch is also connected does not help with keeping the BM2 powered up. I think once you get used to the Anker's little foibles it is fine. I find that to power the Touch I have to press the battery level button on the Anker for some reason.

BTW - I received a new firmware chip from Stanley yesterday because I was having difficulty with my old chip saving my preffered input after switch off. Stanley also included some mods on my new chip to optimize the BM2 for use with Battery power. Certainly sounds very good (and now remembers by favourite input too).

[Covenant]

Sorry to hear that Jerry - the USB and 12v outputs on the Anker battery are on seperate circuits - so the fact that the Touch is also connected does not help with keeping the BM2 powered up. I think once you get used to the Anker's little foibles it is fine. I find that to power the Touch I have to press the battery level button on the Anker for some reason.

BTW - I received a new firmware chip from Stanley yesterday because I was having difficulty with my old chip saving my preffered input after switch off. Stanley also included some mods on my new chip to optimize the BM2 for use with Battery power. Certainly sounds very good (and now remembers by favourite input too).

Does it just plug in Adam or do you have to solder it in?

[Theadmans]

Just plugin the new chip - lever up the old one with a jewelers screw driver and carefully put the new one in place. The little legs on the chip are easily bent so care is required - and plenty of light as you need to get the legs all back in the right holes.

You have to ensure that the chip goes in the same way round as the existing one. There is a small semi circular indent one end of the chip - so use this to check it goes in the right way round. On my latest swop over I got the chip the wrong way round and had a scary few minutes with the BM2 not functioning on switch on. A quick call to Stanley who diagnosed the problem pronto - swopped the chip round the other way and all was well ! (Stanley did say sometimes this can kill the DAC so be careful).

I should have got this right as this is about the third time I have swopped firmware chips on BM's (blame it on my failing eyesight - too much looking at PC screens). My Mark 1 BM twice had problems with source selection and then I had the problem again on the BM2 (not remembering my source selection). The last selected input is written to the chip - Stanley says some chips develop a fault where you cannot write to them.

[Covenant]

Thanks Adam, I shall bear it in mind but I dont seem to have any source selection problem. I wish Stan could do a firmware update to keep the Anker on all the time...

[Darren66]

Darren - this is the lead you need.

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/2-Way-DC-Power-Splitter-Cable-Cord-for-CCTV-Camera-2-Male-1-Female-5-5mm-2-1mm-/390683268220?pt=UK_Computing_CablesConnectors_RL&hash=item5af689947c

You can use it joined to the standard lead supplied with the Anker battery. I found that I could poke one of the bulb wires down the centre of the jack socket and then wrap the other wire around the outside of the jack socket (check polarity to light bulb first). I then wrapped copious amounts of insulating tape around to keep it all in place.

The bulb gets pretty hot so I think it is best to mount it in something to avoid melting any adjacent wiring. Now I have the smaller grain of wheat bulb I have dispensed with the pepper pot housing which was much too big. I found a small plastic capsule in my son's toy box (the kind of thing you get small toy prizes in out from a machine) and have mounted the bulb in that for now. I just get a small red glow from the rear of my hi-fi rig - this is handy as a way of telling the bulb is on.


Hi Adam thanks for all the info.Bulb and leads arrived,connected and working nicely.

Thanks.
Darren

[Theadmans]

Hi Adam thanks for all the info.Bulb and leads arrived,connected and working nicely.

Thanks.
Darren

Good - glad to hear it is working well for you Darren.

[Covenant]

I have just ordered the recommended cable to attach a bulb. Is this grain of wheat bulb the right one? http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/2-12v-80ma-White-Grain-of-Wheat-light-bulb-lamp-12-V-/300603410648?pt=UK_BOI_Electrical_Components_Suppl ies_ET&hash=item45fd5c08d8

[StanleyB]

I should think so.

[Covenant]

Received the cable and the bulb today.
There is no markings on the cables from the grain of wheat bulb. How do you know which one is positive?

[MartinT]

Unlike LEDs, bulbs have no polarity. You can wire it up either way round.

[Covenant]

Cheers Martin, thats good to know.

[RAZRr1275]

Does the Anker work as well as the Ankaka for powering the Bushmaster? It's cheaper where I live and it'll ship faster so it would be ideal but I read somewhere in this thread that it has issues with shutting down or something when with the Bushmaster. Also of note I'm planning on using a splitter so that I can use the battery to power the Bushmaster and my Bantam Gold at the same time.

[Ali Tait]

Thought they were the same?

[Ali Tait]

In any case, you should be able to power both no problem. I use my Ankaka to power a pair of Golds.

[RAZRr1275]

I don't think they are - People have been saying that the Ankaka works well while the Anker shuts down after 20 mins for some people and works fine for others so I'm not sure

[John]

Ali did you have any issues with the monos with the Ankaka as when I tried it with the Gold it sounded a bit harsh so went back to mobility battery for the Bantam (the Bushmaster loves the Ankaka)

[Ali Tait]

Not sure either, but I'd guess if you were powering both it wouldn't be an issue anyway as long as you leave both powered up all the time.

[John]

Yes some of the Anker's shuts down but if you powering both should not have these issues. This is why some are using a light bulb to keep it powered

[Ali Tait]

Ali did you have any issues with the monos with the Ankaka as when I tried it with the Gold it sounded a bit harsh so went back to mobility battery for the Bantam (the Bushmaster loves the Ankaka)

Don't have monos John, use two Golds. I was using a fairly basic linear supply before, the Ankaka was clearly better. Don't find the sound harsh at all.

[John]

interesting my golds did not like the Ankaka wonder what caused the difference

[Ali Tait]

See other thread. :-)

[MartinT]

The Ankaka works perfectly without needing a bulb to keep it running. The Anker seems to have given a few users problems with shutting down after 20 mins due to the very low current consumption of the BM2 not triggering its sensing circuit.

Get the Ankaka and be patient with shipment as it won't give you any subsequent shutdown headaches.

[John]

The Ankaka only took a week for it to arrive for me

[RAZRr1275]

Anyone know specifically how close the Bushmaster is to keeping the Anker on? I would be using both the bushmaster and the bantam at the same time so that will be alright. The other thing that makes me want to try the Anker at the moment is that its $50 cheaper since its shipping is free with amazon prime.

[Ali Tait]

I reckon you'd be fine running both. You could always send it back if not.

[RAZRr1275]

I've just decided on the Anker - I don't use my laptop battery to prolong its life so I just had the idea of using the splitter to make it power my laptop too instead of the wall charger if I want to turn the bantam off

[Ali Tait]

Not sure that's a good idea, the laptop may inject noise onto the supply?

They the laptop in and out of circuit and see if you notice a difference in sound quality.

[RAZRr1275]

Not sure that's a good idea, the laptop may inject noise onto the supply?

They the laptop in and out of circuit and see if you notice a difference in sound quality.
Yeah I just did some research and it wouldn't work anyway. Different voltage needs. Ill just give it a go with the bantam and bushmaster. Would a phone hooked into the Usb charger cause noise as well?

[Ali Tait]

Possibly, just try it and see.

[RAZRr1275]

Possibly, just try it and see.
I'm going to order the Anker today. I'll report back what I find as far as shutdowns. If there are some I'll report back about 1) What using it to power a dac and amp does and 2) What using it as a phone charger at the same time does since that's a totally different voltage that it would definitely recognize.

[RAZRr1275]

Got the Anker in today. Have had it on for 3 hrs with only the Bushmaster plugged in and no shutdowns

[Ali Tait]

Good. Sound better?

[RAZRr1275]

Good. Sound better?

Yup - lower noise floor and generally a bit more refined

[Ali Tait]

Yep, that's how I'd describe it.

[RAZRr1275]

Yep, that's how I'd describe it.

It's definitely different to hear music woven together from a totally blank space

[pitadavespa]

Hi,

Has anyone tried this new battery?
http://www.ianker.com/product/79AN7906-BA

It "only does" 5V 4.5A, 9V 2A and 12V 1.5A. Would the last one be enough for the BM2 and a pair of Temple Audio Monoblocks ?


Thanks,
Luis

[wee tee cee]

I run temple monos and the bm2 with a big car battery to good effect. I use a big car battery solar panel and give the battery a proper mains charge once a fortnight......dare say you're neck of the woods will benefit from a bit more sunlight than Glasgow!!!!!

[Theadmans]

Hi,

Has anyone tried this new battery?
http://www.ianker.com/product/79AN7906-BA

It "only does" 5V 4.5A, 9V 2A and 12V 1.5A. Would the last one be enough for the BM2 and a pair of Temple Audio
Monoblocks ?


Thanks,
Luis


....Yes that does look interesting appears to be a 2nd Generation version of the Anker Astro Pro 20000 mah I have.

Looks smart in black and I like the LCD display - wonder if it will have the same shutdown problems as the one I have ?

Strange also that they have deleted the 19v option from the new battery.

I know the BM2 draws very little current - that is the reason my current battery switches off (unless I light a bulb with it simultaneously with the BM2). So I think 12v 1.5A would be more than man enough for the job of powering the BM2.

It would be interesting if someone could try one of these - I may consider it as a future purchase if the shutdown problem has gone. Good price too - £59 on UK Amazon.

[pitadavespa]

I run temple monos and the bm2 with a big car battery to good effect. I use a big car battery solar panel and give the battery a proper mains charge once a fortnight......dare say you're neck of the woods will benefit from a bit more sunlight than Glasgow!!!!!

Thanks.

(I'm not 100% sure if I understood your comment, but if I this) Yes, definitely more sunlight in Portugal! ;)

[pitadavespa]

....Yes that does look interesting appears to be a 2nd Generation version of the Anker Astro Pro 20000 mah I have.

Looks smart in black and I like the LCD display - wonder if it will have the same shutdown problems as the one I have ?

Strange also that they have deleted the 19v option from the new battery.

I know the BM2 draws very little current - that is the reason my current battery switches off (unless I light a bulb with it simultaneously with the BM2). So I think 12v 1.5A would be more than man enough for the job of powering the BM2.

It would be interesting if someone could try one of these - I may consider it as a future purchase if the shutdown problem has gone. Good price too - £59 on UK Amazon.

Yes, they removed the 19V option and changed the max amperage to smaller values.
I wonder why they did that...

Yes, Amazon UK has the best prices for these batteries.

Thanks. ;)

[Søren]

I don`t know if this has been posted earlier in this long thread. It is not cheap, but looks very advanced. I like it is fully regulated http://www.powerstream.com/PST-MP3500-I.htm

[Theadmans]

Hi,

Has anyone tried this new battery?
http://www.ianker.com/product/79AN7906-BA

It "only does" 5V 4.5A, 9V 2A and 12V 1.5A. Would the last one be enough for the BM2 and a pair of Temple Audio Monoblocks ?


Thanks,
Luis


OK I decided to email Anker to ask about the Auto Shutdown on this new 2nd Gen battery. This is their reply :-

"Kindly please be advised the 2nd Gen Astro Pro 2 will turn off as well if the connected devices is drawing less than 50 mA. Hope this helps."


...this is interesting as for the 1st Gen Anker they quoted Auto Shutdown below 80 mA.

Now Stan told me that the BM2 draws between 40 - 60 mA.

So the upshot is that although this new 2nd Gen battery may still shutdown when used with the BM2 - it is a lot less likely to than the 1st Gen battery. Given that some folks actually manage to use the 1st Gen battery with no shutdowns then I would say this 2nd Gen Baterry maybe worth a try.

[Wakefield Turntables]

I ordered one the other day so let's hope I get this second gen battery:eyebrows:

[Alp]

OK I decided to email Anker to ask about the Auto Shutdown on this new 2nd Gen battery. This is their reply :-

"Kindly please be advised the 2nd Gen Astro Pro 2 will turn off as well if the connected devices is drawing less than 50 mA. Hope this helps."

...this is interesting as for the 1st Gen Anker they quoted Auto Shutdown below 80 mA.

Now Stan told me that the BM2 draws between 40 - 60 mA.

So the upshot is that although this new 2nd Gen battery may still shutdown when used with the BM2 - it is a lot less likely to than the 1st Gen battery. Given that some folks actually manage to use the 1st Gen battery with no shutdowns then I would say this 2nd Gen Battery maybe worth a try.

I already have an Ankaka battery for my MB2 but bought two Anker Pro2 batteries to power my Temple Audio monoblocks. They would not even power them up, let alone cut off. I am not sure why. I noticed only when I got them they are now rated at 1.5A, which might be too little for the monoblocks, even in standby.

[Wakefield Turntables]

Well mine is now dispatched and probably sitting on a ship somewhere. I should with a little luck have it in the next couple of weeks.

[Theadmans]

I already have an Ankaka battery for my MB2 but bought two Anker Pro2 batteries to power my Temple Audio monoblocks. They would not even power them up, let alone cut off. I am not sure why. I noticed only when I got them they are now rated at 1.5A, which might be too little for the monoblocks, even in standby.

OK sorry to hear that Alastair are these the new Black Gen 2 batteries? I am sure 1.5A would be enough for a BM2 and probably the SBT too - but I don't know what your monoblocks need.

[Ali Tait]

The supplied wall wart power supply is three amps.

[Alp]

Yes, these are the new black 2nd gen batteries. They look nice etc. and the connector is 2.1mm but, as Ali points out, the Wallwart is rated at 3A (18V). I know my Ankaka works OK at 12V, so will probably try a pair of those.

[Wakefield Turntables]

My ankaka battery arrived today, I'm looking forward to trying it out when I return home from work:D

[perbra]

My ankaka battery arrived today, I'm looking forward to trying it out when I return home from work:D

Hi my Ankaka battery was shipped April 2, 2014. When do you think it will show up in Norway? Have not figured out how to use their tracking service as I have no info about the company being used.

[Wakefield Turntables]

They are quite quick. Probably a couple of weeks.

[MikeMusic]

I have an Ankaka running and it makes a big difference.
Superb buy.

The stuff I discover here on AoS hardly seems believable to me - a laptop battery to run kit and make such a difference - mad

[brian2957]

Aye . I've been using a car battery to power a Bantam Gold amp and a little hifimediy DAC . Who would have thought it :scratch:

[MikeMusic]

Aye . I've been using a car battery to power a Bantam Gold amp and a little hifimediy DAC . Who would have thought it :scratch:

Not possible, too far fetched to be true
:)

[brian2957]

Honest guv. Some dodgy character on here told me to do it . Think his name was Mike or somthin like that :lol:

[Wakefield Turntables]

Ive had the Ankaka battery running now for 3 days on my BM2 & TEAC VRDS 25x CD combo. And I'd just like to say....


BUY ONE!

[Covenant]

Having to unplug and plug in the Anker at each listening session irritates me. Has anyone thought up a fix for this problem yet?

[MartinT]

Having to unplug and plug in the Anker at each listening session irritates me. Has anyone thought up a fix for this problem yet?

Yes - use a plug-in timer switch. Set it to charge up during the day, listen to it on battery only during the evening. Works perfectly.

[MikeMusic]

Honest guv. Some dodgy character on here told me to do it . Think his name was Mike or somthin like that :lol:

Mike or somthin is close enuf, the guy must be a hero and gifted with second sight and all sorts
Do everything he sez
:)

[BilliumB]

Has anyone compared powering the Bushmaster II and a SB Touch by batteries vs linear power supplies fed from individual balanced mains transformers (say 300VA)?

I'm looking at the best way ahead for power - have put up a post in 'The Artist's Palette' area.

Thanks. Bill

[MartinT]

Has anyone compared powering the Bushmaster II and a SB Touch by batteries vs linear power supplies fed from individual balanced mains transformers (say 300VA)?

No, but I have compared BM2 and Touch, fed from individual batteries, with both fed from individual linear power supplies driven from my regenerator. Battery power wins by a considerable margin. In fact, I was simply amazed at how they perform at a quite unexpectedly high level when run this way.

[BilliumB]

Martin

How important do you think it is to use separate batteries?

[MartinT]

I tried using the Ankaka battery to power both (12V jack and 5V via USB) and it was good, but using a separate 5V phone booster battery supplying 2A via USB to the Touch sounds better.

[BilliumB]

Has anyone tried powering the Bushmaster II (and possibly a SB Touch via some sort of linear voltage reduction circuitry) using an Optima battery - probably best with one classed as both for leisure (deep cycle) and engine starting use, something like, I think, the marine 'blue top' (with light grey sides - similar to yellow top, but also has screw connection terminals) - would have vast current supply ability (internal resistance less than 0.003 ohms, CCA 765 Amps), and could go for ages between recharging. Also, I believe they are sealed and therefore fairly safe for indoor use. Should supply rock solid dc supply rails. Thanks. Bill

[richard51]

hello to all.... I have an Ankaka battery.... is it normal use that the battery duration will be 50 hours of charge with the bushmaster? After 50 hours the battery stopped to aliment the bushmaster, and i am curious if others have the same experience with the ankaka.... thanks

[John]

Just keep it connected to the mains it has no impact on sound that I can hear 50 hours is a reasonable time

[MikeMusic]

I was charging at night and off in the day, when playing.

Just switched to on only at weekends and off all week to see if that works.

[StanleyB]

How many hours a day do you guys play music through the BM? I can get a whole month's worth of juice out of the Ankaka before it needs recharging.

[MikeMusic]

About 8 hours, 6 days a week.
The one charge in a week has worked once ok

[MartinT]

I just charge it in the mornings and run it battery-only in the evenings, on a timer.

[richard51]

If i judge by your utilization, the durability of the Ankaka is approximately 50 hours of use..... i will charge it now once a week.... the amp of the bushmaster
is very good, the crown for the jewel (the dac).... i am not sure if i will use the Ember amp with the he 400 ....The low noise effect is better perceived with the microdetails without the ember amp.....And i have not installed the mod.... Mr. Beresford is right....higher price is not judge of quality, but design quality....its also my experience...I will buy the next beresford's children, no matter what...thanks for your replies

[Alp]

I have been trying out various batteries to power my Temple Audio Monoblocs and came across this one - reported in another thread. I promised to Stan I would try it with my BM2, which I have been powering with the Ankaka battery.

In short, this is like a larger (capacity & size) Anker battery, looking almost identical. It also has the same problems of cutting out with the BM2 after about 30 minutes. SQ wise the Ankaka also has the edge. However, with the pcastle 26000 powering my Touch and the Ankaka doing duties with the BM2, there is a noticeable improvement in sound - instruments simply have more presence - compared to the Ankaka powering the BM2 and the Touch. I am guessing this is mainly due to the BM2 and touch being powered separately. I tried powering both with the pcastle but got a loud buzzing, which disappeared when I disconnected the PSU.

For the BM2 I will stick with the Ankaka but for the Touch the pcastle is certainly very good and cheaper and quicker to buy than the Anker. It also sounds very good with the Monoblocs, but that's another story...

[Covenant]

My Anker battery is starting to fail. The 5v supply that I use for my SB Touch has stopped working and the power supply is making a high pitched whine. It's too late to return to Amazon so I will need to contact Anker directly I suppose.
My strong advice is NOT to purchase an Anker battery.

[MikeMusic]

My Anker battery is starting to fail. The 5v supply that I use for my SB Touch has stopped working and the power supply is making a high pitched whine. It's too late to return to Amazon so I will need to contact Anker directly I suppose.
My strong advice is NOT to purchase an Anker battery.
:(
Gloom
How long have you had it, what sort of usage, anything that may have caused it ?

[sondale]

Last week I received my Ankaka batteries, one for the BM II and one for a Bantam Gold, I ran these for a couple of days with no problems.

I then made up a lead to run a Touch, this again was fine. During this time I had the chargers connected to the mains.

Next day the Touch was dead, I reverted to its mains supply and it started working again. I removed the charger from the Ankaka and discovered that the battery was absolutely flat. After a few hours of recharging without any load the battery was operational. I have since gone over to MartinT's method of running the chargers using a timer. There have been no further problems.

I think that the problems centre round the Touch. I know (or at least I think I know) that I put the Touch into standby every night so the consumption should be negligible. I will get a dedicated 5volt battery pack and see if that exhibits the same problems.

So before giving up on the Anker I would try it again without the Touch.

I will report when I have the dedicated 5v working.

[Alp]

I have been trying out various batteries to power my Temple Audio Monoblocs and came across this one - reported in another thread. I promised to Stan I would try it with my BM2, which I have been powering with the Ankaka battery.

In short, this is like a larger (capacity & size) Anker battery, looking almost identical. It also has the same problems of cutting out with the BM2 after about 30 minutes. SQ wise the Ankaka also has the edge. However, with the pcastle 26000 powering my Touch and the Ankaka doing duties with the BM2, there is a noticeable improvement in sound - instruments simply have more presence - compared to the Ankaka powering the BM2 and the Touch. I am guessing this is mainly due to the BM2 and touch being powered separately. I tried powering both with the pcastle but got a loud buzzing, which disappeared when I disconnected the PSU.

For the BM2 I will stick with the Ankaka but for the Touch the pcastle is certainly very good and cheaper and quicker to buy than the Anker. It also sounds very good with the Monoblocs, but that's another story...

Sorry, I meant to say "cheaper and quicker than the Ankaka". It was early in the morning after all.

[Covenant]

Alan and Mike,
I may have been hasty in thinking the Anker has failed, its probably just the smps. The Touch draws more current so if the power supply is not working the Touch will stop working first. If I have more time at the weekend I will try a linear supply but I will need to adjust it to 18.5v like the Anker power supply.
I have left the smps on all the time, probably not a good thing.

[MikeMusic]

Thanks Jerry
Keep us in touch

[Yomanze]

Out of interest who had compared battery vs. something like a Best of Two Worlds linear supply? Given Stan's incredible measurements of the DC lineariser it is very interesting that battery is reportedly so much better than mains.

[pitadavespa]

Out of interest who had compared battery vs. something like a Best of Two Worlds linear supply? Given Stan's incredible measurements of the DC lineariser it is very interesting that battery is reportedly so much better than mains.

I guess it's not a question of linearity only, it's also a (big) question of a totally clean energy source.

[MartinT]

Out of interest who had compared battery vs. something like a Best of Two Worlds linear supply? Given Stan's incredible measurements of the DC lineariser it is very interesting that battery is reportedly so much better than mains.

I compared battery versus my Paul Hynes PR3i linear power supply. Good as the latter is, there was no contest with battery sounding significantly better.

[StanleyB]

There are two main types of power supply noise sources that affect the sound. One is the noise form the power source (battery, linear, SMPS), and the other is the noise from the regulator itself. The BMII uses a set of very decent low noise regulators, which leaves the incoming power source as the one area where improvements can be made. It is possible to go even further and stick an even lower noise regulator in the PSU. But the rest of the circuit would need to be able to make use of those types of regulators. Otherwise it could be a waste of money to go to that sort of length.
The CaimanII is using a couple of ultra low noise regulators in order to take advantage of the 32 bit/768kHz oversampling DAC processor. But the BMII already shows how much benefit a 24 bit DAC processor can deliver when fed from a low noise PSU and regulator.

[Alp]

Out of interest who had compared battery vs. something like a Best of Two Worlds linear supply? Given Stan's incredible measurements of the DC lineariser it is very interesting that battery is reportedly so much better than mains.
Also no contest against the Best of Both Worlds PSU - the battery is way better.

[John]

I had a expensive linear power supply and prefer the battery on the Bushmaster. In my opinion takes the DAC up against some serious DACs

[orbscure]

As an aside to the discussions earlier in this thread, did anybody manage to locate an Anker style battery which doesn't switch itself off?

[MikeMusic]

My Ankar is fine, as I believe all but 1 with a question mark
Or have I missed the point ?

[Wakefield Turntables]

Stan,

Could you answer me a simple question?

Would my bushmaster ii see any improvement by running it through my ps audio p10 compared to he ankaka battery I'm using at the moment.

Thanks

Andy

[orbscure]

My Ankar is fine, as I believe all but 1 with a question mark. Or have I missed the point ?
Reason I asked Mike was that the example I have has been working fine without switching off, but it has recently developed this irritating issue. However, it may be more to do with it being close to needing a re-charge rather than something else. I'm now putting it on charge after every period of use, so it'll be interesting to see if that solves the problem.

In the meantime, does anybody here have the Anker Pro2 20000mAh version (http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00GSLRKJO/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=1N3R3Z4958XYE&coliid=I2N2T79LMCIU5T&psc=1) and can confirm if they have the switching off issues?

Cheers
Pete

[MikeMusic]

I'm charging once a week and that keeps a BM going all week long

I wonder if it takes more with the flashing lights when the CD is in standby overnight

[MartinT]

My Ankar is fine

I thought you bought an Ankaka, the same as me? They don't have the switch-off problem.

[MartinT]

Would my bushmaster ii see any improvement by running it through my ps audio p10 compared to he ankaka battery

My findings were that even the Paul Hynes PR3i linear power supply running from the P10 did not sound as good as the Ankaka battery.

[MikeMusic]

Duh

Eye brain error

Yes. I have the Ankaka. 2nd cousin to Mr. Ankar :)

[orbscure]

If its an consolation Mike, its caught me out too :eyebrows: Is your Ankaka solution available on Amazon? If yes, do you have a link?

Cheers
Pete

[MikeMusic]

If its an consolation Mike, its caught me out too :eyebrows: Is your Ankaka solution available on Amazon? If yes, do you have a link?
Cheers
Pete
You need a carer like me !
:)
http://www.ankaka.com/incredible-20000mah-battery-charger-universal-portable-battery_p409.html

[orbscure]

Ah, thats the baby, thanks Mike... ;) Does anybody know if this available from any UK outlets?

Cheers
Pete

[StanleyB]

You can get away with using a far cheaper li-po 12V rechargeable battery as first discussed in a BM1 thread. But the Ankaka can only be sourced directly from the supplier. They were actually going to discontinue it. But I managed to convince them to keep selling it. No doubt they have sold quite a few since then.

[MikeMusic]

You can get away with using a far cheaper li-po 12V rechargeable battery as first discussed in a BM1 thread. But the Ankaka can only be sourced directly from the supplier. They were actually going to discontinue it. But I managed to convince them to keep selling it. No doubt they have sold quite a few since then.

Good move
It is very effective

[Wakefield Turntables]

Yep I think battery sounds good but its always nice to hear from the designer.

[erlendh]

You need a carer like me !
:)
http://www.ankaka.com/incredible-20000mah-battery-charger-universal-portable-battery_p409.html

I get product not found. Can anyond recommend a battery for the Caiman MKII?

[MikeMusic]

I get product not found. Can anyond recommend a battery for the Caiman MKII?

I just get the website now.
How about emailing them ?
sale@ankaka.com

[TAD12]

how about this one from the same site. I have a couple of the originals and they are fab. it might work, but getting rather expensive now.
http://www.ankaka.com/english/USD/high-capacity-solar-charger-and-battery-20000mah_p46587.html
T12:)

[DIMO]

how about this one from the same site. I have a couple of the originals and they are fab. it might work, but getting rather expensive now.
http://www.ankaka.com/english/USD/high-capacity-solar-charger-and-battery-20000mah_p46587.html
T12:) This is cheaper (http://www.ankaka.com/english/USD/portable-23000mah-high-capacity-solar-power-bank-for-laptopsipadmobile-phonescameras-pspmp3-output-5v19v_p49541.html)- don't have the knowledge to determine whether it has the qualities of the original, including 12V output when turned off.

[MikeMusic]

Think it was Stan that discovered Anakaka
Hopefully he is on the case for all future Beresford purchasers !

[keiths]

This is identical to the Ankaka @ £71.87 delivered

http://www.aliexpress.com/item/Free-Shipping-High-capacity-20000mAh-rechargeable-battery-for-12-16-19V-Laptop-and-USB-5V-output/440290093.html

Note I haven't dealt with Ali Express, so buy at your own risk!

[MikeMusic]

This is identical to the Ankaka @ £71.87 delivered

http://www.aliexpress.com/item/Free-Shipping-High-capacity-20000mAh-rechargeable-battery-for-12-16-19V-Laptop-and-USB-5V-output/440290093.html

Note I haven't dealt with Ali Express, so buy at your own risk!

Looks identical apart from the name badge

[keiths]

Looks identical apart from the name badge

Yes, it has the same model number as the Anakaka - APC-20000N3

[MikeMusic]

Yes, it has the same model number as the Anakaka - APC-20000N3

Could be a giveaway
:)

Guess most sellers don't make the gear so there will often be another source.
I was stunned when I plugged mine in
Sound quality jumped up a big step

[StanleyB]

I still use my 12V battery that is similar to http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/300954998440?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1423.l2649
It works extremely well with my bedside Caiman. The Ankaka is reserved for use with the Touch/Caiman combo in the living room.

[erlendh]

I still use my 12V battery that is similar to http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/300954998440?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1423.l2649
It works extremely well with my bedside Caiman. The Ankaka is reserved for use with the Touch/Caiman combo in the living room.
While searching for a battery, I've forgotten to ask the obvious: Why is the Caiman MKII better when powered by a battery and not a regular power supply?

[StanleyB]

While searching for a battery, I've forgotten to ask the obvious: Why is the Caiman MKII better when powered by a battery and not a regular power supply?
The answer lies in discussions hidden in several threads going back at least a year. So you have a lot of reading to do ;).

[f1eng]

This is identical to the Ankaka @ £71.87 delivered

http://www.aliexpress.com/item/Free-Shipping-High-capacity-20000mAh-rechargeable-battery-for-12-16-19V-Laptop-and-USB-5V-output/440290093.html

Note I haven't dealt with Ali Express, so buy at your own risk!

Tried to buy one from them and got to the pay page to get the message "cannot be shipped to your country"

[mkrzych]

Hello,
I was searching the net to find something more eye-pleasing than Ankaka battery and found this one:
http://www.batteryworld.com/goliath

However the DC out is 16V, do you think that it may be too high for Caiman II or Caiman 7520SEG? Any other options with pro look than Ankaka?

Another option may be this one:
http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B00GSLRKJO/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=ianker-21&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399373&creativeASIN=B00GSLRKJO

But I don't know how the output is selected between 9V and 12V, does it mean that the range is from 9-12V?

[Theadmans]

Hi Krzysztof I own an earlier version of the Anker battery - it sounds great with my Bushmaster MK2 DAC but unfortunately needs a bulb wired in circuit to provide enough current draw to keep the BM running. The Anker battery has an auto shutdown after 20 minutes if it detects low current draw. This black Anker battery is a later generation to mine but may still have the Auto Shutdown after 20 minutes - mind you £50 is a good price so could be worth a try.

The other battery you quoted is 16V - fairly sure Stanley said that was not a good idea when I asked him a while back.

[mkrzych]

Hi Krzysztof I own an earlier version of the Anker battery - it sounds great with my Bushmaster MK2 DAC but unfortunately needs a bulb wired in circuit to provide enough current draw to keep the BM running. The Anker battery has an auto shutdown after 20 minutes if it detects low current draw. This black Anker battery is a later generation to mine but may still have the Auto Shutdown after 20 minutes - mind you £50 is a good price so could be worth a try.

The other battery you quoted is 16V - fairly sure Stanley said that was not a good idea when I asked him a while back.

Thank you. Too pity, because those 16V looks great and got good reviews.

[Kit1cat]

"But I don't know how the output is selected between 9V and 12V, does it mean that the range is from 9-12V?"

You can download a copy of the Anker manual from here

http://www.ianker.com/support-c1-g327.html

[mkrzych]

"But I don't know how the output is selected between 9V and 12V, does it mean that the range is from 9-12V?"

You can download a copy of the Anker manual from here

http://www.ianker.com/support-c1-g327.html

Thanks. However I cannot find any word about the auto shutdown feature if not drilling enough current over the output. Asked Anker if this is still present in this model.

[mkrzych]

Thanks. However I cannot find any word about the auto shutdown feature if not drilling enough current over the output. Asked Anker if this is still present in this model.

And here we go:

Thanks for contacting Anker Support.

If the current draw is lower than 0.05A then the Pro will shut off after around 50 seconds.

[Kit1cat]

Just ordered the Anker battery plus a split power cable. I am hoping to power both my Bushmaster mk1 and my Roku box from the 12v output plus a Logitech Squeezebox from one of the usb outputs.