I have ordered an SBIG STXL6303E for my rig soon to be installed at Siding Spring (ive been out of the game for a while, its about time
) and I thought I might share the decision, it was interesting homework.
First, the chip. It was 16803 vs 6303 pretty much for me. Im interested in NF narrowband so even though the 16803 is the sweet spot these days bang for buck, the 16803 has some 45% QE (ABG) vs 65% for the 6303 (at Ha 656nm, where it counts for me), and the 16803 requires 65mm filters vs 50mm round for the 6303, big price diff. Also, Im not so interested in the extra FOV or extra MP of the 16803.
So then brand. FLI don't make a 6303 Proline, so the comparison is with the Microline ML6303. I actually don't know why one would prefer proline over the microline generally. The Microline is smaller but similar in spec otherwise and only slightly cheaper than the Proline.
The spec difference for the ML6303 and STXL6303 isn't huge either, cooling, RBI etc is about the same and of course the chip specs are identical. The big difference though is in features and (somewhat) in price.
All prices are ex OPT to keep it simple.
Since the STLX6303E has a built in guide-chip-before-the-filter so the following is equal.
ML6303E $7895. 7 pos filterwheel $995 plus MMOAG $825 plus SBIG STI Guide cam $495 (whatever guide cam, an example)= $10210 total.
STLX6303E plus 8 pos filterwheel =$9995. (built in OAG camera).
OK, price is pretty close ($200 diff, whatever), but the SBIG advantage generally is substantial.
FLI warranty= 1 year, SBIG 2 years.
SBIG set has MUCH less back focus (integral guide chip).
SBIG filterwheel 8 pos, FLI 7 pos.
SBIG Option for AO.
I ordered it via Peter Ward (ATS). Its a myth that OZ dealers are always more expensive than an OS purchase, Peters price was about on par with OPT (adding GST, shipping and insurance), with a lot less bother. Peters support (and SBIG direct on one occasion) has been outstanding in my experience in the past, so local purchase was a no brainer this time. I understand FLI support is also excellent either direct or via agents, I have no bias either way support wise.