Quote:
Originally Posted by Logieberra
I can't reply in full at the moment (too difficult on Android), but as an MX owner and user I disagree with the majority of the review, particularly the remarks on SB service.
Greg, I read your recent posts on the SB forum. You're not happy at this present moment and, as such, perhaps it's not the best time to write an objective and balanced review.... Logan.
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That's true. I definitely am annoyed with it at the moment but on the other hand there are plenty of posts from others showing difficulty with the mount. Usually the slipping cam, bad PE outside spec, difficulty or can't get PEC working.
SB service I probably being quick to complain but Planewave or Mountain Instruments or AP run a very high standard and SB is competing against these companies and the competition is much faster and easier to communicate with and get something resolved.
Quote:
Originally Posted by CDKPhil
My experience with the MX has been mostly great. The only real problem I have had/having is the PE. My error is twice what it should be. I am disappointed with this, but not worried.
I contacted Software Bisque about the problem and they are in the process of sorting it out. They are shipping out a new worm block for me to install. They have been timely and helpful with their response.
As it has been stated. They would be doing themselves a favour if they adopted an approach like Astro Physics and tested the tracking performance of each mount before it was shipped.
I think the service is great, all I had to do was send them some tracking logs and a video of the problem and they are sending me out a replacement.
The great thing is I can install this myself, I do not have to send my mount back to the supplier for a warranty job, no costly return shipping or having to be without my mount for months.
I don't know of many manufactures that would take your word for it and then allow you to cary out the repair yourself. (Quite exceptional!)
I have found Sky X very easy to use. T point is great the pointing accuracy of the mount is brilliant. I average about 10 arc sec RMS even with an out of spec worm. Pro Track works well, cleaning up any tube flexure, misalignments etc.
Polar alignment is so easy and accurate, not having to drift align is a pleasure.
I am running Sky X on a Mac so I would expect it to be good.
To be fair I have had some trouble with the latest daily build, I am sure this will be fixed in the next one.
That brings me to my next point. The software is always being updated, problems are fixed promptly and suggestions are always noted. They have always responded to my posts.
I agree with Greg that the user guide lacks information and some of the instructions are hard to understand. But nothing that should stop you from using the mount.
In all, I would recommend the mount to anyone. I have been out of astronomy for a long time and have had no experience with a computerised mount. I have found it very easy to use.
Phil
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Gee whiz Phil you are easy going. Bad PE and still happy after $11K spent? I suppose if SB is very accomodating to problems then a lot is forgiven. It also sounds like poor worms were common and its a known issue. I think the mount received massive response and the problems they faced were more about how to get them out the door and QC issues were not settled well. Much like Nikon and the D800 with its 10-40% poorly aligned AF module ( reported as now being corrected in latest production, finally).
The whole premise of paying that sort of money for a high end mount is to get low PE otherwise the bells and whistles amount to nothing.
But if you persevere with the teething difficulties and get it all sorted you will end up with a nice mount as Chris has done. The point being at $11K cost you expect higher QC and not having to fiddle with it at home. That's more what you expect from Sywatcher but then its price reflects that.
I would seriously consider an AP mount like AP1200 over the PMX even if it costs a bit more. I have never heard of AP1200 issues - never. Something to consider.
Greg.