Recommend mount for ED100 observing, possible astrophotography?

[mbaddah (Mo)]

Hi

Was wondering would be a recommended mount for a ED100 refractor? Mainly just basic observing. If possible to get one with some "light" tracking for astrophotography would be bonus Thanks all.

[batema (Mark)]

I have an EQ6 Pro which I can not fault. Has go to capabilities however I have only used this feature once and it located the objects in my field of view all the time. It is more than a mount for basic observing however if down the track you would like to do some photography it is great. Before the dollar crashed I got mine from Andrews Communications for $1495 but I believe they have gone up in price. In saying that I saw someone post recently who had just bought one for the same price. Good luck and Merry Christmas.
Mark

[NCRAW]

EQ5 type mount is still very good for 100ED. This was recommended to me by many people.

[chris lewis]

Had my ED100 on a EQ3 Skyview - good for visual but max. on this mount, on a Meade LXD55 - OK for visual but did not track accurately, then on a Skywatcher HEQ5 mount - great mount for the ED100 and AP.
Now have a ED120 on one. I nearly got the EQ6 it is heavier - but it is a better future proof mount. However - if you get Skyscan HEQ5 at a good price this will go with the ED100 nicely.

[andrew2008]

EQ6 pro is still $1495 at www.telescopeshop.com.au.

[batema (Mark)]

At the same web site as mentioned above the HEQ5 Pro is listed as nearly $1800. We also had the HEQ5 Pro mount and when I lift that compared to the EQ6(~20Kg) it feels light as a feather. HEQ5 is a great mopunt as well.
Mark

[mbaddah (Mo)]

So correct me if I've misunderstood, the EQ6Pro mount is a better mount than the HEQ5Pro because of it having larger load capacity than the HEQ5Pro, but at the same time the EQ6Pro is cheaper than the HEQ5Pro because the HEQ5Pro is lighter, is that correct?

The HEQ3/5 seem to be good options for viewing. Other than the price what are the differences between these two and would the difference matter greatly for observational use mainly? Appreciate all the help guys thanks alot.

[Stephen65]

The EQ6Pro is better for the reason you gave but it's heavier.

The EQ6Pro is usually more expensive than the HEQ5Pro, if it's cheaper at a store it must be because of some special on the EQ6Pro. Out of the two I'd take the EQ6Pro, especially if you can get it cheaper, because it future-proofs you.

[bmitchell82 (Brendan)]

Great response.

I wish i had the 1500.... im trying to swindle it now but still....