I am interested in getting a GEM for my C-11 to do astrophotography. My budget will allow me to get a used CGE mount version 3.01 which is not upgradeable (about 4 years old). This is about $1800 w/tripod & counter weights...OR I can spend about $2500 for a Losmandy G-11 (about 2 years old). Both mounts are in good condition and have GOTO. Which should I buy? Money is an issue, but I don't want to buy a mount (CGE) that I would regret in a few months. It would also be nice to put the extra money towards a CCD or something...what do you think????
Celestron CGE vs. Losmandy G-11 ???
Started by Roo, 07/13/2008 04:16AM
Posted 07/13/2008 04:16AM
Opening Post
Posted 07/14/2008 10:07PM
#1
1) If you are willing to spend $2500 you can get a used CGE for that. What are the new CGEs going for? I thought there was a sale.
2) I have a CGE and like it a lot. I have never tried a G11 and can't comment. The new HC/software for the CGE is very nice. The older Software is certainly useable. If this is for astrophotography aren't you going to use NexRemote (the on-laptop virtual HC) anyway? With NexRemote you don't use your HC at all and whatever version of the software is in NexRemote is what you are using (you will want a Wingman Game wireless controller to control the mount for centering/alignment with NexRemote but not a hand control).
With either mount don't forget to budget for NexRemote or whatever other software you will need wiht the G-11 to run it from a laptop for imaging.
Drew Sullivan
2) I have a CGE and like it a lot. I have never tried a G11 and can't comment. The new HC/software for the CGE is very nice. The older Software is certainly useable. If this is for astrophotography aren't you going to use NexRemote (the on-laptop virtual HC) anyway? With NexRemote you don't use your HC at all and whatever version of the software is in NexRemote is what you are using (you will want a Wingman Game wireless controller to control the mount for centering/alignment with NexRemote but not a hand control).
With either mount don't forget to budget for NexRemote or whatever other software you will need wiht the G-11 to run it from a laptop for imaging.
Drew Sullivan
Funding Member
