Can I use rechargeable 9V batteries in my Alembic?

[Sniper bass]

Just purchased a 2010 dragon wing bass that takes four 9V batteries for LEDs and one 9V for the active pickups.  Can I use rechargeable
lithium 9V batteries?  If so what brand do my fellow bass players recommend?

[adriaan]

The problem with rechargeable 9Vs is that they don't actually deliver 9V. That is an issue for the single battery that feeds the pre-amps in your bass, but it may be less of an issue with the four batteries that power the LEDs.

[edwardofhuncote]

Adriaan beat me to it Mike, but I was going to suggest using rechargeables for only the LED supply, and just buy a good quality 9v battery for the instrument preamp. I always buy a two-pack, and keep the extra in my case pocket.

I've had pretty good luck with the Duracell Quantum Series (red-tops) but I suspect the packaging is 95% of a marketing strategy, and plain old copper-tops would be just as fine. For that 5 minutes the backplates of my Alembics are actually open though, they sure look nice... and, well... powerful. 

Congratulations & Compliments on that Dragon Wing. That's a fine-looking instrument. Welcome to the Alembic Club.

[jazzyvee]

There are a few threads on here regarding using rechargeable batteries for alembics so if you check there you will find some answers for sure.
I use rechargeable batteries for the LEDs only in my Europa bass. The other thing I have read about rechargeables is that they drop to a certain voltage and then drop to a level too low for driving the bass really quickly and unpredictably. In contrast a regular battery will fade much slower before dying completely. In fact some members here have commented, I think Harry is one,  on a particular tonal quality from using a fading battery. But yeah stick to regular batteries. I personally use duracell or energiser.

[Sniper bass]

Great advice.  Thank you all.  This is a GREAT forum for us alembic owners.  I will use the rechargeables only for yhe LEDs.  Thank you all

[David Houck]

Congrats on the bass!

[goran]

beautiful bass, man! Congrats