Metamagic rod question

[neochaos]

Question: If I maximize Touch of Idiocy (2lv->5lv), then do I use lesser (1lv-3lv) metamagic rods or normal (1lv-6lv) metamagic rods?

[SurlySeraph]

Lesser. The rods are based on what spell levels they affect, not what effective spell levels they alter to.