Cable Techniques MX-POWERSLED for Sound Devices MixPre-3 And MixPre-6

I'm using this with a MixPre-6 II, a Hirose-USB-C PD cable purchased off Amazon, and an Anker PD battery. As long as you research how USB-C PD delivery works, and buy/make the correct cable and correct battery, this is a great setup - IMO. I've also had success using a non-PD Ravpower battery at 9V/12V (no longer for sale), using a DIY cable. I like how I can use this device and the cable / battery of my choice. It's a solid and well built piece of gear.

Not the most robust connection because it attaches to the mixpre battery compartment door hinge and protrudes outside of the mixer, but if treated with care it shouldn't be a problem. Note the power adapter isn't included. I got this because Hirose connection is more secure than a usb c.

My goal was to power my MixPre3 (first edition) with a v-mount battery via a d-tap to hirose connecting cable. Goal met with this device. I did try the new Sound Devices MX-Hirose, but that was DOA, so I sent it back and tried this. The Cable Techniques MX Powersled has a more solid, metal housing compared to the plastic (and dead) Sound Devices product. However, the MX-Powersled has a significant problem, at least on my MixPre3. While it latches in fine (not sure why another reviewer said it did not on a MixPre3...), it has a subtle play after latching. While putting just finger pressure, pushing in while it is latched, I heard a faint buzzing, and the power immediately kills. Let go, power is restored, but the MixPre has to power up, presets have to be reloaded, etc. This could absolutely kill a job. My solution was to tape two small stacked rubber washers (the kind used for a 1/4 20 connection) to the MixPre, butted up to the metal contacts. Now, the Powersled clicks in - takes a bit more force - but there is no play in the connection. I think the problem is significant, and could really be bad where the MixPre3 is in a sound bag, and there is pressure pushing back. For example, push in a fader to adjust, and the unit might power off. My solution seems to be solid, so I am now confident it won't fail. But the audible buzz sound (it also propagated through electronically to a connected camera and external video recorder) and the loss of power with just slight pressure is a design flaw..

I found two companies selling a battery eliminator for the MixPre series and this one cost a bit less than the other but I'm sure they both do the same simple job of taking a HIROSE 4 pin and providing power to the MixPre. Simple so why does it cost closer to .100? It's a ritzy price tag for that one job. Solid metal construction and I suppose not that many are sold so not a mass produced item which would add to the cost so don't get me wrong I appreciate someone going to the trouble of making it so that I can power the MixPre in my bag off the BDS. Works great and probably will last. Actually, it will probably outlast the MixPre itself kinda like buying good glass for a camera where the lens often these days outlasts a camera body. This power adapter has already out lived two MixPre's in that I purchased it for the v1 MixPre and am now using it on the MixPre v2 that I bought when it came out.

The Sound Devices MixPre-6 II is a great, compact recorder, but it eats AA batteries for lunch. Some users power their MixPre-6 II (and MixPre-3 II) with USB power banks, but the USB connection is fragile and risks getting pulled out of place while in use. Enter the Hirose adapter. If you're using one of the smaller MixPre units, there's nothing like an NP-1 or HiQ battery for getting through an entire production day, and the Hirose adapter allows for use with the proper battery cup. The MX Powersled features solid, metal construction that snaps easily in place on the recorder. This is a great power solution for the MixPre-3/6 II recorders.

I use this so I can use the same power options I have for my SD 552 and SD 302. Connection works great, makes MP6 just like the other SD Equipment. I find the latch on this unit doesnt hold though, pops out easily. For me its not a big deal, I put some tape on there as a backup, its always going to be securely crammed in a mixer bag anyways. But if youre using this to record on rollercoasters it might be something to take account of.