Hi Barry,
Having shot with Triplets, EDs and Achros, there is definitely no arguing that the triplets and ED have better imaging quality. This being said, as a beginner I would not worry too much about this. There is a far bigger learning curve in imaging with things like guiding, exposure setting, post processing etc. These are the things that make a difference and are the hardest to master. Someone with a very nice Triplet APO and top of the line Mono CCD is going to produce images nowhere near the quality of an experienced user with a 'lower quality' setup
One could argue that by buying better it gives you room to grow, but with this hobby things become costly quickly and no harm in 'dipping your feet' with a simple setup. I dont have much time anymore to image so downgraded to a f/5 achro and sold my Mono CCD
Only use my DSLR and I know the quality is not the same as when I used to shoot with a better set up but end of the day I am very happy with how things are panning out (and extra $$$ in the wallet
).
Below is my second attempt at my f/5 achro on a full moon's night using my DSLR (original link
here). As you can see, there is quite a bit of CA around the bright stars but still very much a usable image and enough for me
I have a Semi-APO filter on the way so will do a comparison once it's here.
I would say give it a shot, if you like it then there's plenty of room left to learn about imaging with, and if you dont then these scopes go pretty cheaply and quickly around here 2nd hand (or keep it for visual use).
Clear skies and remember, every learns here from mistakes, not by getting it right the first time