48v or higher to 12v battery

[TDC]

 I'm faced with a long run from tower to batteries, so I would like to use the highest practical voltage.   I'm seeking advice on a cheaper charge controller (300-600 watts?) for 12 batteries that can accept 48v input.  One I found is the Xantrex C40.  I'm also very interested in something that could step down from much higher voltage to 12-48v.  I worked with a 48v LiFe charger today with 120-240v input,  AC or DC and that got me thinking...   I have 12v, 200 watt xbox power supplies I think will run on dc, the input is rated for 100-127 vac @ 47-63 Hz.  $15-$20 on ebay.  I sure wish I still had the 3 phase transformers I scraped years ago!

[cardamon]

Two words: midnite classic

[TDC]

The Midnight Classic isn't cheap so that's not really the answer I was looking for....   but it may be the one I needed.
My build is essentially hobby/experimental (at this point) so I'd like to keep the cost down,  but I'm starting to think the Classic is cost effective in the long run.  That, plus I think it will hold it's value very well.  And I love data logging! BTW, price increases Feb 1st.  They also now have a cheaper MPPT http://www.midnitesolar.com/pages/kid/index.php

[cardamon]

You could play with transformers.  I hear you about having a long run and wanting high voltage.  I have a 1400 run.  Say want you want about southwest windpower, but one thing they got right is they offered a 120/240 volt turbine.  I really dont know what some of these other companies are thinking.  Take Bergey for example.  Now Im sure the XL 1 is a great turbine - one of the best, probably much better than my whisper 200,  but 48 volt?  I would probably buy one if my wind tower was right next to my house.  currently my turbine is connected through a transformer.  It works well.  I would like to replace the transformer with a classic down the road.