Thanks for the tips. I have studied the reviews of the 80/400 short tubes by Synta. In summary these say: basic, limited in use, but fun to own and have along for travel. I like the size, and they can see some DSO's and pretty clusters. The ED's look nice, but don't want to be precious about it.
I also saw a 900mm reflector from Orion on a table top mount, but I don't think I want that much magnification.
The AZ3 mounts the short tube come on are so bulky I might try and see how I go on a regular tripod (the short tubes are 1.5 kg). I like the idea of adding a 45 erecting diagonal and using them for day spotting in the desert (anywhere). I presume a regular tripod is better for spotting anyway. At low mag I think I can do without slow motion controls - I will see.
Camera warehouse sells the scope and az3 tripod for 251, (they sell the az3 for $200!), and the scope for terrestial viewing for about 185. I would go the astro az3 version, and leave the tripid for local use.
I know this would not be a good primary scope/setup but reckon for big DSOs, moons and birds it would be a good travel scope. It looks like I could retool as a cool finder as well
