>>10415323Without the Spongeface mod I was using a USB to JST cable, which is fine since the USB output on the Talentcell is only 5v. With the Spongeface mod you can just use the 12v DC output, as it has a switching regulator which steps it down to 6v (what a fresh set of D cells would be).
I personally don't think using D cells as a backup are worth the added weight, and the D cells in general have been the source of a lot of issues with the pack. Mine would shut down when fully powering on the wand 95% of the time. It's been said the slight variation in the size of different branded D cells is the cause of the issue (Duracell apparently is slightly larger and has a better connection than Energizer). I've not had that issue at all since switching to the Talentcell. Even when using the right D cells, as capacity drops, and voltage drops, issues will arise, so you're unlikely to get the full lifespan out of D cells. I just don't see any reason to use them, even as a backup. I'd put in a second Talentcell if I wanted a backup before ever using Ds.
