Quote:
Originally Posted by ZeroID
Thanks Ken, this one comes with finder shoe and finder (8 x 50), on a vixen rail with 1.25" diagonal. Must be a later version.
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I have the older model than the one Philip is selling in classifieds (ie.. the gold tube version). Have to say I am very happy with it for Planets and moon, and double stars.
Mine has 8x50 finder, but I also added a Telrad Red Dot, and its hassle free finding planets.
Upgrades that I did immediately...
MAk to SCT Adapter (which Philip is also selling in accessories I think). This allows you to fit items made for an SCT onto the visual back. I added a 10:1 Crayford Focuser... as the standard focusing on the MAK (and most SCT's) is seriously a *****. The 10:1 is a dream in comparison. Also allows 2" eyepieces (and visually a Panoptic 27mm has been so enjoyable). Though 15mm is my sweet spot for visual on planets.
My experiences...
Its pretty heavy, mainly due to the Corrector thickness (meniscus lens). This in turn adds to cool down time. I am just in the habit of putting the OTA outside a couple of hours before observing, then slide it onto my EQ mount when I am ready.
The factory dovetail is dodgy as all hell for such a heavy scope, and I will be doing exactly what Philip did to his, and remove it and fit tube rings... this is a good upgrade that has already been done to the one in classifieds.
2700mm Focal length, so don't expect to be doing DS Photograpy, and unlike 8" SCT, a focal reducer/Flattener is not really suitable. Thats not to say you cant still enjoy many DSO's... Orion Neb in 27mm Pan is really stunning, as are items like the Jewel Box and many Globular Clusters.
On an EQ6 and a piggy backed 60mm - 80mm APO, you would end up with the best of both worlds IMO.
Best of luck.
Justin