glend
16-02-2017, 06:24 PM
The Skywatcher MN190 has been revamped and rebadged as the MN190-DS. The original version was typically badged as the MN190-BD.
The major difference in the new model is a larger secondary mirror (64mm), where the older model had the 51mm secondary.
I imagine that Skywatcher went to the larger secondary to make the scope more suitable for use with larger format DSLRs. The 51mm secondary was perfect for sensor sizes up to APS-C. The small secondary provided a smaller central obstruction, @ 26%, and thus improved contrast.
Stock situation maybe variable. I noticed that Teleskop-Express are still showing the 51mm secondary in their product detail page. If your considering buying one it is probably a good idea to ask which one your buying. I checked the Bintel and Andrews websites and found: Bintel is not showing the scope, and Andrews apparently deeply discounting from $2199 at Christmas to $1799 now, this may mean that the older BD model is being run out by Tasco. Its worth asking before buying. Personally i believe the small secondary version is superior and if you can find one, buy it. I will certainly be hanging on to mine -its a collectors item now.
The major difference in the new model is a larger secondary mirror (64mm), where the older model had the 51mm secondary.
I imagine that Skywatcher went to the larger secondary to make the scope more suitable for use with larger format DSLRs. The 51mm secondary was perfect for sensor sizes up to APS-C. The small secondary provided a smaller central obstruction, @ 26%, and thus improved contrast.
Stock situation maybe variable. I noticed that Teleskop-Express are still showing the 51mm secondary in their product detail page. If your considering buying one it is probably a good idea to ask which one your buying. I checked the Bintel and Andrews websites and found: Bintel is not showing the scope, and Andrews apparently deeply discounting from $2199 at Christmas to $1799 now, this may mean that the older BD model is being run out by Tasco. Its worth asking before buying. Personally i believe the small secondary version is superior and if you can find one, buy it. I will certainly be hanging on to mine -its a collectors item now.