I certianly understand going for Japanese gear if you want top quality, but for less demanding applications the GSO 2" barlow is a nice multifunction tool. The lens unscrews from the body so you get a 2X barlow, a 1.5X(?) barlow by screwing the lens directly to the eyepiece and a 2" barrel extender. I haven't tried the 1.5X option yet - is it permitted to attach a GSO barlow to a 2" televue?
I have the 2" ED version but I agree with others that the ED is probably BS designed to earn more $.
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