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I have some random thoughts about this:
1) It is easier with wide-angle eyepieces, since objects take longer to exit the field
2) There is a lot you can do to make mass-produced dobs move more smoothly. There are some DIY articles on this forum about how people have achieved this (eg using Ebony Star formica, etc). The smoother the movement, the easier the manual tracking
3) As you mention, equatorial platforms are a solution. A basic platform can be built for around $100 in materials. I use a platform for high-power lunar & planetary observing (ie over about 250x magnification), but I don't bother otherwise.
Phil
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