I've read in the PC.L user manual that LI batteries are recommended. I've also read the written voltage range for the board, with 4.5V being at the bottom.
My question is: Does the PC.L actually have a strong preference for the higher voltages of Lithium Ion rechargables, or is the blurb in the manual just a recommendation?
Here is an example of a situation where NIMH might be, at least on paper, a better fit.
4xAA pack. With NIMH, you can achieve 4.8V and ~2200 mah with plenty of discharge rate and a very low price point. With LIon, you can achieve 7.4V and ~1800 mah.
If the PC.L would really be (louder, better, happier) with 7.4V, or is the 4.8V solution just as good with a smidgey more runtime. I understand that the LED driver on the PC.L is not a voltage chopper, so perhaps the 2200mah vs 1800mah is not an apples to apples comparison due to the voltages.
Somewhere, someone commented that the audio amp on the PC.L really comes into its own at/above 6V input voltage, and if that is the case, then LIon may be preferred for that very reason.
Its too bad that there is such a jump in capacities between the 14500 and 18650. I know there are physical sizes inbetween those, but capacities don't seem to make them attractive choices.
Don't get me started on LIon AAA batteries, which are apparently oversized Tic-Tacs with a protective PCB attached.
Those sabersmiths who have had access to the PC.U for the past year-ish, what are your experiences between the two battery formulations?
Any input would be appreciated.
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