looking for a mod friendly headlamp

Hi Folks

I’m looking for a new headlamp, on a modest budget and welcome your recommendations. I’m keen to explore some modding, specifically of the driver as I’ve got a good grasp of AVR programming. After reading the CPH thread on “things to consider when buying a headlamp” I’ve worked out that the things important to me are:

- nice bright floody lamp, probably a XM-L T6.

- Rear battery box

- AA/AAA not so keen on the idea of lithium cells close to my brain.

- P60 drop-in compatible?

  • less than $50

I’m not too fussed on keeping it light weight, I’m not going to be running with it or using it for really long durations. I am quite like the the SF-522 (if it ran on AA’s) or the interesting unbranded headlamp / flashlight combo discussed in this thread Review: Unbranded 18650 XM-L U2 Flood to Throw Flashlight / Headlamp Combo but I don’t know how mod friendly it would be…

Anyone got any thoughts?

Jim