The power of recording

Power is a crucial element during field recording sessions, especially for long-term projects spanning several days. Fortunately, the market today offers a wide range of power solutions, adapted to different budgets and needs

Most portable recorders operate on standard AA or AAA batteries. However, professional equipment favors more robust power systems, such as batteries with Hirose connectors, NPF-type batteries, or USB external batteries, similar to those used for laptops.

Personally, I prefer USB external batteries because of their versatility. They allow you to power various recorders without needing multiple types of battery systems. To optimize power supply, there are various adapters that convert voltages and connector types. For example, some adapters convert a 12V DC input to a Hirose output.

Hirose a fiche 12v

To optimize power supply, it is also possible to use voltage converters to increase the output level from 5V USB to 12V, via Hirose connectors or standard 12V plugs. In addition, there are converters that adapt LPF batteries, commonly used for cameras and audio recorders, to Hirose connectors. Similarly, adapters are available to connect NPF batteries to standard 12V plugs.

LPF a fiche 12volt et USB a Hirose avec convertisseur usb 5v a DC12v

Compact recorders (such as those from Zoom or Tascam) offer satisfactory battery life with standard AA or AAA batteries. However, devices powering external microphones requiring phantom power need more energy, especially during long recording days. For my sessions, I primarily use Zoom F6 and F8n recorders, and I opt for a combination of AA batteries, NPF batteries, and USB external batteries. AA batteries serve as a backup solution when other options are depleted.

Batterie double sortie 12v standard et usb 5v

I readily adapt my power sources to the requirements of each session. A quality NPF battery provides a full day of recording autonomy, even when using all inputs with phantom power. For extended recordings, I typically carry two NPF batteries and a USB external battery to ensure continuous power supply.

The market offers a variety of brands, each with its own characteristics. Having tested several of them over the years, I have identified those that offer superior reliability for my needs. For USB external batteries, I recommend the Belkin and Anker brands, known for their durability. For NPF-type batteries, Sony and Power Extra have proven to be excellent options. Finally, for standard AA or AAA batteries, Panasonic Eneloop stands out for its consistent performance.

Wishing you successful and lengthy powered recordings.