Hi Suzy,
They're OK, but the SV is miles better.
Edge of field is quite distorted and the RA finder is fixed (at least on one) so you can't swap EPs or change the viewing angle easily.
Focusing is achieved by a rather crude and noisy front lens mechanism and I found it difficult to sync with the main scope.
Behind the Stellarvue offerings, "Antares" are probably the 'best', as they offer most of the functions of the SV scope at about 10% cheaper.
Astro-Tech also offer pretty much the same finder as the SV, but there is very little difference in price, though they might be available more quickly.
Takahashi would win hands-down were it not for their expense and lack of RACI diagonal.
Baader is another possibility, but I believe they are about US$360!!!
Last resort, you could check on that US site for used examples of the above.
Again. G'luck!
Peter
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