Telescopes and Equipment Adelaide

[Grease]

Howdy All,

Just wondering about stores in Adelaide. I've found Adelaide Optical and Shell Lap Supplies but I haven't been into any of them yet. Intending to wonder down to the big smoke this week.

Are these the only two shops or are there more? I also found a website called Telescope and Astronomy at Reynella.

Would appreciate any feedback from anyone who has had dealings with the shops or the website.

Regards

Rob

[RobinClayton]

Hi Rob,

My first scope was from Australian Geographic at Marion shopping centre, but my second scope was from Adelaide Optical. It is a small shop on Grenfell street and they have a good range on display and a fair bit of stock available for pickup.

Apart from Adelaide Optical and the Shell Lap supplies, Adelaide doesn't really have many options for serious scopes. I had opportunity to check Bintel in Melbourne, which has much more available for display, but since I wanted to ensure I had good warranty, I decided to buy from Adelaide Optics, since it is too hard to return a scope to Melbourne. Adelaide optics was more expensive than Bintel, but I figure it was worth the extra to have local support if needed.

Main thing is to take your time - it took me about 12 months before I decided which scope to upgrade to - so many options and so many things to consider.

Good Luck

Robin

[leon]

Hey Rob have a look at this place Claude is really a top bloke to do business with.

http://www.astronomy-electronics-centre.com.au/

Leon

[casstony]

Telescopes & Astronomy are good to deal with and quick with email replies. It's good to support one or other of your local suppliers if possible.

[louie_the_fly]

I've heard lots of good reports about T&A. I haven't purchased anything from them yet, but I've had communication with them on a couple of occasions. Their prices seem pretty good as well. I am about to order an SCT T adapter and a T ring from them. They are definitely worth a look. http://www.telescopes-astronomy.com.au/

[Grease]

Thankyou very much for the replies guys. I'll try and support a local shop. I guess if we want a bigger business in Adelaide we need to support the existing ones and help them grow.

[sheeny]

I bought my POD through T&A and I've also bought some other bits and pieces. I'd recommend them.

Al.

[BlackWidow]

Give Mathew at Telescope and Astronomy a call, he is very helpful. In my opinon from past dealings, stay away from Adelaide Optical as they are unreliable and will mess you around... I know it sounds harsh but I have tried several times, each turned into a drama... I also use Bintel and Andrews Communications, but they are not in Adelaide... You will get good honest advice from an Astronomy person via Telescopes and Astronomy... He operates from Home and I purchase my very first scope from him...

[SkyWatch]

Might be a bit late, but my two-bob's worth...
I have bought stuff from all the Adelaide suppliers over the years.
Matthew at T&A is helpful and is usually cheaper because he doesn't have a store to rent. A bit hard to "try before you buy" though...
Adelaide Optical have a number of scopes in stock, so you can look at them easier. Shell-lap likewise.
Shell-lap and Adelaide Optical are the only stores in Adelaide that can really help you, and that know what they are talking about. Their prices aren't overly cheap though.
Claude in Cleve specialises in Takahashi, and knows his stuff. He will match/beat prices for a number of other brands too. He likes to have a chat when you ring him, so be prepared to have a comfy seat. ;)
Have fun looking!

[louie_the_fly]

I got my bits from T&A. Paid by bank transfer and got the items in the post within a few days. It was one of the easiest transactions I've ever made - ever. I'm happy to use them again. I've also had hassle free dealings with Bintel & Andrews.