Orion Skyquest xx14g GOTO dob

[mikey7 (Michael)]

Gday everyone,

Anyone here have any experience or info on the Skyquest GOTO series dobs?

I'm about a third of the way thru building a 18in dob but time constraints with kids/work etc will se me complete it in the year 2089. The 14in Orion would do the job nicely and the price seems reasonable.

Had a search online and can only find a couple of reviews on the Orion dob so was hunting around for more info from you guys here.

Rgds
Mike

[Allan_L (Allan)]

Have you seen this review:
http://www.iceinspace.com.au/41-651-0-0-1-0.html

Admittedly for the push to rather than goto but other than that difference, the review is relevant.

I have personally looked through this scope many times and I am always impressed with the experience. The optics are first class and compare favourably with many other (much) more expensive scopes that I have had the pleasure to look through.

I personally have a Skywatcher collapsible goto and I love that scope and the collapsible nature (rather than Orion's dismantle-able struts). But I have to admit that I feel the Orion (and I have observed through several) has a slightly higher quality build and optics, overall.

Having said that when I had the chance to acquire one recently, I decided to stick with the SW.

[Allan]

The base of the XX14g is crazy heavy. No way will you pick it up and move it any distance.

It's a very good dob and great performer, especially for the price. Just make sure you factor in building/buying a trolley system to move it around. Then you will have a very enjoyable scope.

[whzzz28 (Nathan)]

I have the 12" version and can't fault it.

As mentioned, the base is heavy. Happy i only went the 12" rather than 14", i can just lift the base.