Preferred Spell and Spell Perfection and Metamagic Rods

[Trish Megistos]

What is the order of things?

Basically, could you use spell perfection first, for example quickened cone of cold, then apply a metamagic rod (level 4-6) of (let's say dazing) and then use heighten spell with preferred spell to up it to a level 9 spell (either with heighten magic or other metamagic feats).

I would assume not. But is it clarified somewhere?

[James Risner]

Metamagic level adjustments are done with a rule of thumb:
What is worse for the caster

So regardless of the slot used a quickened cone of cold is consider 9th (5+4), so you’d need a 7-9 rod.

If you tried to heighten, you’d be at 10th and there is no 10-12 th rod.