CG5 computerized vs 6 SE

So I ebayed my C8 ultima setup b/c I wasn't using it much at all. It was too heavy and cumbersome to setup due to all the accessories, camera etc... I want to get back into doing more visual observing for a while.

So now I'm looking to get something that's quicker to setup and I'd like to try a goto mount while I'm at it. I like the nexstar 6 SE setup b/c it seems pretty light and gets decent reviews, but I'm also realizing that for not much more money I can get the C6A-SGT on the computerized CG5 mount.

Any one own either of these? I would like to know how they compare in terms of setup and calibrating the goto system. There are a few comparisons of these systems out in internet land but none are very specific, they just say the CG5 takes longer to set up.

Thanks.

Andrew Box said:

So I ebayed my C8 ultima setup b/c I wasn't using it much at all. It was too heavy and cumbersome to setup due to all the accessories, camera etc... I want to get back into doing more visual observing for a while.

So now I'm looking to get something that's quicker to setup and I'd like to try a goto mount while I'm at it. I like the nexstar 6 SE setup b/c it seems pretty light and gets decent reviews, but I'm also realizing that for not much more money I can get the C6A-SGT on the computerized CG5 mount.

Any one own either of these? I would like to know how they compare in terms of setup and calibrating the goto system. There are a few comparisons of these systems out in internet land but none are very specific, they just say the CG5 takes longer to set up.

Thanks.

I have a CG-5 ASGT, no C6 SE.

This is my thinking:

ALT-AZ mounts are easier to use and more comfortable to setup. The tube doesn't rotate the way it does with a GEM.

The CG-5 is a over sized mount for the C6, they put C-11's on it, its probably not going to be much less effort than your Ultima. I think the SE mount is also more reliable/electronically stable. Runaway CG-5 ASGTs are not uncommon.

If you want to do extended duration Astrophotography or mount a larger scope, the CG5-ASGT is more versatile but for someone who wants a lightweight easy to use mount, I would go with the SE.

Jon

Just ordered an 8 SE on ebay, got it for $1099 w/free shipping (had a $100 off coupon), can't wait to try it out!