So a question I have about either the PowerLab 6 or 8 is if you are already using a iCharger and have a gaggle of cables will they still work on the 6 or 8? The was I am thinking is they just have a 6 or 8 balance tap output and I don't know what version plug that is but they do give your (or you can buy) the adapter to use the JST in 2-8S taps so I am thinking I could just plug my parallel cables to this. Is that right?
It kind of depends on your "gaggle." I noticed that the main leads on the PowerLab do have a different kind of connection into the unit, however 4mm 'banana' do work and fit into the PL itself, for me they fit a little looser than desired (not to the point of falling out, but I like a good snug fit on these).
The balance port is a different type of plug altogether, but than can be adapted to any variation including the most common brands. If using the FMA balance boards, you can simply buy a XH type board (providing thats what your iCharger uses) and run all of the same components.
**Please note: I believe that the balance port is an 8-pin unit with the 8th pin always being the positive even on, lets say, a 3s battery. So the output is a bit different that the standard XH type found on many other chargers. The FMA boards make this adaptation for you.
As mentioned earlier, there are also adaptors available that plug in with the FMA lead to the PLab unit and XH on the Paraboard end (this is what I have... Came with my 'package' from EPBuddy.com). To use these you need to go into the programming and switch from FMA wiring to XH wiring. Really, this would be the only cord you would need to buy to convert, again depending on your 'gaggle.'
Its a lot simpler than it sounds.