Anton Bauer charger question

[Ivan Medina]

Hello, I am a new jack learning more everyday. Is there any drawback to buying a used charger (Tandem 70)? I need a charger for Hytron 50's and was looking for a way around the $500+ price tag. Am I better off getting this new?

[Osvaldo Silvera SOC]

In my opinion and experience it's better to wait a bit and buy a used 2702 4 position charger. Treats your batteries better over the long haul. and what happens when you have a long job and 2 batteries won't cut it. They are also upgradable with the newest firmware when AB comes out with newer batt technology.

The used 2702's are about $1000 used. sometimes a bit more sometimes less. Just my opinion.

 

Good Luck,

Ozzie

[Mark Schlicher]

The small chargers can be upgraded (unless they are really old) but must be sent in. Costs about $40 if I recall correctly...but I agree the diagnostic chargers are worth it if you can afford one. I've had some subtle problems with a used one I bought, so the first thing I would do if I were buying another 2702 would be to send it in to AB for a thorough checkup.

[Ivan Medina]

Thank you very much for the responses and advice. Truly appreciated.

[Mark Karavite]

Dear Ivan,

 

The 2702 is a staple, and certainly is needed for the DDM (Diagnostic Discharge Module). The 2702 will keep your batteries in good shape & lasting longer.

 

Keep in mind that the 2702 only charges one battery at a time. Say you're using an Alexa with a rig that carries 3 batteries. Only having a 2702 will not charge up your batteries quicker than the Alexa will draw them down. 6 batteries wouldn't cut it in this scenario, and 9 might not even cut it.

 

That's why I carry both a 2702 for the DDM, and a TWQ 4 position simultaneous charger. This way I can stay ahead of power hungry digital cameras. If you're on a budget, then the Titan T2 (2 position simultaneous charger) is not a bad option. Keep in mind that the TWQ takes nearly 5 hours to charge a Dionic HC. The Titan T2 (& the new TM4 quad charger) take 1/2 that amount of time.

 

I've had good luck buying used chargers. I bought a 2702 for $800 online, sent it to Anton Bauer to get checked out, and it's running great 5 years later. This forum, Ebay, etc... are good places to find them used. Also, Paul Dudek at Anton Bauer is a good friend to the Steadicam community. He often sells us AB products direct at a discount. Late April (right after NAB) is a good time to buy new B stock items at a good price.

 

Anton Bauer recommends that you have a charger station for each battery you own. They say it's best to leave your unused batteries on a charger for best life span.

 

Hope this helps,

Mark