off-brand batteries?
 

I've seen some websites offering rebuilt Anton Bauers, or generic cases with the off-brand cells in them, for a lot less than the real thing. Comments range from very positive to very negative. Generally, the batts can't be charged on an AB charger.

Are any of these batteries a good deal, or should I stick with the brand name?

Re: off-brand batteries?
 

I'd check on the brand of cells they're actaully using. For example, I've had Ni Cads re-celled with Sanyo cells and they were great, even better than the originals, lasted for years.

Re: off-brand batteries?
 

I've used the v mounts which will charge on an idx charger with good luck. I purchased mine from a place called hired gun video, batteries4broadcast is a little more and i imagine the same cells but lots of news stations use them. Also I think i see people using synergistic?

Re: off-brand batteries?
 

Unfortunately, the switch to another brand only makes sense if you're replacing multiple batteries or don't already have an AB charger. For me, one battery plus new charger = a lot more than an AB battery alone.