Interesting thread Mike,
There are some alternatives for us DSLR uses but you have to admit there is a huge gap in outlay to get to the next level of imaging. Also we are restricted to what we can get and brand. SBIG , SX or FLI or Apogee and thats about it for choice or maybe a Artemis top end camera? Thats all I now about myself and when it comes to one shot color the choice is even smaller.
The new SXV-M25C would be one I would consider as well as the new SBIG 11000 if I had money.
Yet a lot of DSLRs have the same ccd sensors etc as the dedicated ccd imagers have except for the cooling, maybe AO and a guiding port which we can use a cheap subsitute for.
So for me I will be using a DSLR for some time yet till prices come down on the dedicated ccds. Just all that noise really bugs me on warm nights..
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So I say price and outlay holds most of us DSLR uses back from the next big step..
Thats my 2 bobs worth...
Cheers Gary