Battery-operated music stand lights are handy in all sorts of circumstances. They're a great backup when the bulb on a conventional stand light burns out (no waiting for the old bulb to cool off). They're handy when electrical outlets are unavailable, or when the music stand will need to be moved (as sometimes happens when playing at a dinner event).
I've been using two very good, yet very different, alternatives. The Mighty Bright XtraFlex Duet (Released February 12, 2008) and the LampCraft ConcertLight.
Illumination pattern: The pictures below speak for themselves. Both lights provide adequate and fairly even light, but the ConcertLight clearly provides the most uniform illumination. The ConcertLight's color is a little warmer, which I find easier on the eyes.
Power source: The Mighty Bright uses 3 AAA batteries. I like to use rechargeables; if I'll be using the light a lot, I can keep one set on the charger and another set on the stand. I can also keep a set of alkalines around for emergency backup. I don't have good data on how long the batteries last, but it's in the tens of hours.
The ConcertLight uses a rechargeable NiMH battery pack, or it can run on an AC adapter. The battery pack lasts about 3 hours, even after several years of use.
Mounting: The Mighty Bright can clip to just about anything, including a wire stand or a notebook cover. The ConcertLight is fairly heavy, so it needs a solid stand such as a Manhasset. The ConcertLight does have a groove which allows it to mount on metal stands which have a lip.
Price: The Mighty Bright lists for US $25, but I got mine for $20 from Southwest Strings (March 2008). The ConcertLight is $129 from the manufacturer.
Bottom line: Both products are excellent. I don't regret buying one of the first ConcertLights, about eight years ago. But if I was just starting out, I'd go with the Mighty Bright for its low cost and portability.
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