OK Mica. I just didn't remember the batteries were in the same compartment. Also, the batteries powered the led on the Distillate. Ron can set up the led on the 82' Series 1 if I send the bass for an upgrade. NOT ANY TIME SOON! My Chevy Express needs new head gaskets. I already refurbished the frame and brakes last summer. The 3000gt VR4 was in the shop too. You know cars get Jealous!!

Unlike Series instruments, which are known for limited battery life, the batteries in non-Series instruments can last a LONG time.   I can imagine someone getting a Distillate and not realizing it used a battery for a year or more.


Bill, tgo

Thats right. The batteries last very long. My 70's Ibanez used a battery. I remember changing it every 6 months.

My 95' Ken Smith BT6G Flame maple has a pre-Amp too. Last about 6 months or so.

The batteries in all non-series instruments can last up to a year not just the Distillate. They last so long that I have to right down when I have changed them so they don't die during practice or a performance. I don't understand, however, your reluctance to use the five pin cable and power your series bass as intended. Plugging in a five pin is no more of a hassle than plugging in a stereo to mono cable IMHO.


P.S. My LED batteries typically die much sooner than the preamp ones.

Hammer, I always play the Series 1 with the DS-5 on gigs, rehearsals and hopefully if i get the opportunity, a studio. Playing in my room alone, i tend to plug in the 1/4 jack. As for gigs, i learned my lesson not using the DS-5.