does charging lipo's at low amp decrease punch?

[bdebde]

Low charge rates should not affect the punch. It is good for getting a way out of balance pack in line (balanced). As far as checking balance on a partially discharged pack; I know at least one manufacturer that says not to worry about balance at a partially discharged state. They say to only balance a fully charged pack since the packs are matched for max voltage and min voltage as well as capacity, but the voltage can vary quite a bit between the cells as they are being discharged. So, charge it up and then worry about balancing.

Yes, cheap packs may not be well balanced to begin with.