[Jasp05 (Aaron)]

Hi guys,

I think this is like the 3rd time I've asked this question. But each time I've had a bit more experience with different setups and have learnt what I like/ don't like.

I am currently enjoying astrophotography with a custom built tracker and dslr with 55-250mm lens.

However there are some inherent faults in my tracker and am looking at moving to the Star adventurer. (probably should of started here...)

But I'm torn as to whether I should buy the star adventurer or go the whole hog and just buy a HEQ5 pro.

I feel like i wouldn't use the HEQ5 for visual , as I much prefer the ease of pushing a dobsonian around. (And I think I have aperture fever already) so would like to get a 12inch + sized dob with GOTO in the future. But for now my 8 inch dob is working just fine.

But I'm not entirely sure I want to start using refractors for astrophotography on the HEQ5 either. Costs seem to skyrocket once you start adding a decent refractor with field flatteners and guiding. (Although If i lived at a dark site and had an observatory I would definately go the HEQ5. )

So my main question is this.

I'm thinking of buying a Star adventurer cause its light portable and can produce some really nice results. (I'm aware i may need guiding but that would be doable within my budget right now/ approx $2000).

However a HEQ5 is less portable more setup time, more expensive. But would it be worth it? I've also heard about ppl changing the gear drive to belt drive on these mounts. whats that mod worth?

This is a long post, but I'm quite unsure as to what I want to do. Carrying an EQ mount and a DOB seems like a lot of hassle. A star adventurer and dob is easy. or an EQ mount with no visual observing for the night seems boring...