A headlamp is a headlamp; or so you think.   A headlamp is one of those ubiquitous pieces of gear that is often ignored.  I have ran the gamut of headlamps, from the $5.00 Target specials to the super bright LED that would make a coal miner proud. Recently I have had the opportunity to test the latest offering from Princeton Tec called the Remix.

The Remix features 3 smaller LEDs they called “SuperBright LED” and a larger LED they have dubbed “MAXbright”, the combination makes for a versatile and powerful combination that will adapt to a variety of different lighting conditions.  One of the things I appreciate the most about Princeton Tec’s entire line of headlamps is their size.  They make headlamps that are reasonably small wthout sacrificing features.   It weighs in at just a touch under 3 ounces including the batteries, and the entire headlamp will fit in the palm of your hand. The Tec Remix follows in this grand tradition,  a hinged headlamp in a small light package.  The three AAA batteries are easy to change and acess without tools,  and the pushbutton switch is very straightforward,  changing modes with a push and hold of a button.  If there is anything bad to say about the Remix is the same button is somewhat exposed, providing the potential to be inadvertently turned on in a crowded pack.

The headband is comfortable and secure, and the asymetrical hinge on the light itself makes it adjustable while perched on ones head.  Out of the package the hinge is a bit stiff, making it a little difficult to rotate. While I have not had the Remix in any really wet weather, Princeton Tec indicates that it is water resistant to level 1 of the IEC standards which makes it secure for splashes and light dunkings , and the tight tolerances of the battery door and the sealed button provide indications that it should work well in wet conditions.

I estimate that I have used the Remix for more than 15 hours, and the original 3 AAA batteries are still going strong, with no indication that the amount of light is fading.  Princeton Tec estimates that the Remix will work for 28 hours on its brightest setting with a single set of batteries, and for 200 at it’s lowest. The headlamp has ridden in my pack, pocket and vehicle for for countless days, and still look like new.  The sleek design of the Remix helps keep any vulnerable parts for being knocked about, and the satin finish keeps scratches from becoming obvious.

If you are looking for a versatile headlamp that can go anywhere and do anything in a small light package, give the Princeton Tec Remix headlamp a few minutes,  you may be impressed; I was.