Quote:
Originally Posted by knightrider
I believe it's Synta that owns both. It'd be nice if you could actually inspect the scopes before you bought, just to get the idea of size and weight. Consider the 8" dobsonian if the 10" is too cumbersome.
I can vouch for the collapsible tube too. The tube itself can be transported upright in the backseat of a car.
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Synta basically makes scopes for any supplier who wants one--so long as it's off patent.
If Orion or Skywatcher designs something patented for Synta to make, other brands would have to wait some years before they can ask them to make that particular product.
Some stuff doesn't even have a Saxon or Skywatcher brand on the equipment itself. For example, the EQ6 is exactly the same. The only difference is one small label on the shipping box. Thinks like the AZ-EQ5s and AZ-EQ6s are patented to Skywatcher only.
If you want more unique stuff and new models, Skywatcher or Orion will get first dibs. Saxon and others will have to wait.
So the collapsable tube from Skywatcher or Saxon is pretty much identical--Skywatcher makes theirs in glitter black (some people like it because it's pretty), and Saxon makes them in white. Saxon is a bit more consistent with their stock levels, but since Skywather has a better marketing program, it is often sold out at the supplier at times.
Most beginners are very happy with an 8". The footprint of the 6", 8", and 10" are pretty much identical though. They just use the same chipboard base for these sizes.
Either way, all these scopes are great beginner scopes and most people will grow in the hobby with them for quite some time.