Small Phantom Powering Unit
 

Anyone know of a small battery-powered unit that provides 48V phantom. Just needs one 3XLR connector on the mic side. Ideally, I'm looking for 3.5mm miniplug "out".
I know Denecke makes something like this, except it's XLR out. Anyone know how Denecke products are? Any other makers to consider?

What type of budget do you have for the item?

I'm looking for something pocket sized.
Budget is $350 or less.

I have a couple of those Denecke PS-1 (now PS-1A) phantom power units. They are excellent, IMHO. Apart from the general audio and build quality, the way the 9 V battery fits is so much better in all respects than other systems. It is secure, quick to change and robust. This is in sharp contrast to most equipment with those silly little snap-on terminals.

I'd reduce the number of 3.5 mm mini jacks in your audio circuits to the absolute minimum if I was you. Stick with XLR3's as far down the chain as you can.

Best,
Helen

Helen,
Thanks for responding.
A few follow-up questions if I may. What is the difference between the PS-1 and PS-1A? How do you go about installing the the 9V battery? Is there an external on/off switch? And what kind of battery life is to be expected with an alkaline?

Dave,
The PS-1A added a mini jack (oh no) for external power. The input voltage is fairly flexible, 7 to 18 V. I have one PS-1A, as well as the older PS-1's and have never wanted to use that feature.

The battery just slips into the open corner of the case and makes contact with two spring terminals. It is locked in by a lip in the case that presses against the slight hollow of the battery base. Amazingly simple, yet amazingly secure physically and electrically. Why doesn't everyone do this?

There is no on/off switch. You just reverse the battery in the case, or take it out. Again, simple and totally effective.

Battery life: I usually change mine after a full day's use, but they will often last longer. It depends a great deal on the current drain. Denecke say 8 to 76 hours.

Best,
Helen

Figure in the neighborhood of $50 or so for a phantom power unit. Maybe $100 tops.

Just to name a few:

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/cont...=288123&is=REG

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/cont...=178395&is=REG

www.professionalsound.com/catalog/48ph.html

One thing I like about the Denecke over the PSC is that the PSC has an on/off switch which i worry could be accidentally/inadvertantly switched off. Also nice is that the Denecke has a 15dB pad option. The cost is $130.