SW AZ-EQ5 opinion

[LewisM]

Been considering buying the AZ-EQ5 (NOT THE 6) since it came out. I’ve read diverse opinions of it saying untameable harmonic vibration making it a poor imaging mount to others claiming little to no issues. Either way, it seems a relatively unpopular mount, and the price isn’t particularly friendly either (more than an NEQ6)

I remember a couple here at least trying one, and would like to hear your thoughts and opinions. My setup is diminutive to say the least, so weight bearing is a non issue for me. I’d just like the ability to do imaging in EQ mode and visual is alt-AZ.

[Rainmaker]

Lewis, Tony L’H has had one since 2019 and from memory found that the backlash needed to be adjusted but otherwise fine. Cable wrap might be an issue in some firmware versions…

I also considered it for the smaller scopes but someone conned me out of the scope…

There’s a bit of info on https://www.cloudynights.com/topic/680874-skywatcher-az-eq5sirius-pro-az-experiences/

[LewisM]

Conned?! You basically gave it to me ;)

[casstony]

Hi Lewis (and Matt), the AZ-EQ5 needs worm adjustment out of the box but guides well afterwards. It's a nice lightweight mount.

I haven't done any astronomy for a while after being distracted by a new hobby, electric mountain biking, but I'll getting back to it soon.

[casstony]

Here are pics of the worm adjustment: https://acercandoelcosmos.wordpress.com/2015/06/16/montura-skywatcher-az-eq5gt-ajuste-holgura-ejes/

It's more fiddly to adjust than the EQ6's.

[LewisM]

Thanks Tony. Appreciated

[foc]

Although I bought it for eventual use in mainly Alt Az, I have only used mine in equatorial mode for solar or DSO imaging so far, so I am yet to check how nervy it becomes in Alt Az mode and whether cable wrap becomes an issue. On such limited assessment, I consider it quite a nice light old style mount. I have not been brave enough to tune mine yet. I imagine it might have to be quite highly tuned to meet your standards.


Possibly, resale value may not be as good as the more modern, expensive and even lighter ioptrons though

[LewisM]

Did you have the CFF on it Ross?

[foc]

Lewis, not at all sure you were being serious with that question!!! I do have one ADM replacement for the AZEQ5 saddle but I have never thought to use the CFF140 on it, bought an AZEQ6 for that part of my eventual return to normal observing...... ...when my parental duties are less distracting to in getting in the right mood for contemplation, which is something you probably know something about.

Instead, I feel the AZEQ5, even if placed on a more substantial tripod, is a better match to a TSA102.

[xelasnave]

Why cant you do visual in eq mode?
Alex

[foc]

You can do visual in EQ mode Alex, it is just that EQ mode is often less comfortable for visual on a low tripod and a little slower to set up if you do not have a permanent installation