ricosuave:
Hmm, so even if I use a meta magic upped spell I have to use the caster level needed to cast said spell. Poo
Yes.
If you use a Level 2 spell, normally the minimum caster level is 3.
However, if you apply one or more metamagics, so that it becomes a level 4 spell ... now the minimum caster level is 7.
This isnot always a bad thing; the Wand's caster level (not the user's) is what counts for resisting
dispel attempts, or for bypassing Spell Resistance. Sometimes one or both of those factors can be sufficient reason to spend the extra gold and XP for a higher caster-level.
Also, for things like Fireball, where the effects are caster-level dependent (damage, for Fireball), it's still the Wand's caster level that matters, not the User's. A 20th leel wizard using a standard Wand of Fireball deals out 5d6 damage, just like his 1st-level Apprentice does. :) Range, duration, area, anything dependent on caster level, looks to the Wand, not the Wielder.