EQ6 vs Astro Optical Samson Mount

[netwolf]

Hi All,

Need some advise, trying to decide between these two mounts for my 10" reflector, and in the future a C9.25 SCT.

If I go the EQ6 it will initially be just the dual axis drive version, and use the EQ6 Direct drive method to get goto.

The Samson has RA drive but a DEC Tangent arm so goto is out of the question without major modifications. But would easily carry the weight of the 10". I have the Advanced Astromaster DSC that I could possibly fit on to this mount.

Those who own either or both please comment on the portability of these mounts.

Regards
Fahim

[sejanus (Gavin)]

just the portability?

I can pickup my eq6 easily enough if the scope isn't mounted on the top. The scope being on top stopping me is not because of weight, it just makes it awkward to grab.

I see a lot of people complaining about the weight of the eq6 for portability reasons, so I guess it depends on person to person as to how strong you are. I'm no arnold schwarznegger but I'm reasonably fit.

That said, I am looking to get a scope buggy sort of setup. But I don't mind picking it up when I need to.

hope that helps. try and check one out in person.

[netwolf]

I have noticeced that neither Bintel nor Andrews list the EQ6 non-goto version anymore. Is it still sold?

The samson mount I am looking at has a proven track record in astrophotography field. However I believe that is due more to the person using it than the equipment.

Regards
Fahim

[iceman (Mike)]

yeh I'm not sure you can get the non-goto versions anymore.

Check with Steve Massey, he might have some.

[Dave47tuc (David)]

Originally Posted by netwolf

Hi All,

Need some advise, trying to decide between these two mounts for my 10" reflector, and in the future a C9.25 SCT.

If I go the EQ6 it will initially be just the dual axis drive version, and use the EQ6 Direct drive method to get goto.

The Samson has RA drive but a DEC Tangent arm so goto is out of the question without major modifications. But would easily carry the weight of the 10". I have the Advanced Astromaster DSC that I could possibly fit on to this mount.

Those who own either or both please comment on the portability of these mounts.

Regards
Fahim

I have had both mounts. I have the Atlas (EQ6) now. But I can tell you I regret selling my Samson mount big time Not as fancy as the EQ6 but a lot better built and it could handle a lot bigger scope than the one I have now. My Samson was modified by a member of the ASV and the mount tracked super well. It is still out there somewhere and I hope the person who is using it is enjoying it.
I would buy it back in a heart beat Hello are you out there

[netwolf]

I have asked Andrews' for a quote on the EQ6 non-goto, they don't have any in stock at present and will get back to me. The Samson is of the card for the present the current owner wants to hang on it to it till his new mount works out. My other option is a TAL made mount with a single access drive this is the mount normally sold with the new TAL-250K Klestov-Cassegrain telescope. This looks to be a very sturdy mount and Russian made usually means built like a tank.

Regards
Fahim