Mick I usually run one with the small weight on for line work an run it about 9-10.5 volts depending on skin an location. I usually like to leave a lot of needle hanging out which works great if you have your hand control under control.I like to set multiple ones up for different line weight as well.As far as shading I really haven't played a whole lot with them for that I set up my vivace and Bishop for that.