CGE1100 vs 12" LX200 GPS SMT

OK, so it looks like I have settled to these 2 choices. What I would like to know is if I would be better off with one or the other. The LX200 would have to have a wedge at +$400 roughly, the CGE1100 would need a 2" star diagonal at +$150 and a GPS at +$200. THis puts the CGE at about $400 higher than the LX200. The big plus (??) on the CGE is the GEM and the better portability. Is it worth it?

Thanks,

Dale

Dale:

I have a Meade 12 LX200 GPS UHTC. I looked at the CGE 11 and the 14. I had the opportunity to take a CGE 14 apart at the NEAF show in NY. It is a nice scope and looks great. I was a bit concerned by the "newness" of the CGE mount, knowing that problems would certainly arise. From various posts here and on Yahoo, it does seems as though the CGE mount has some growing pains.

Re the GPS. I have to transport the scope everytime I use it. My observing spots are not too far away from one another, but I must say the GPS is convenient. I know some of the info you would input into the CGE probably goes into non-volatile memory, but I think you do have to reload the date and time. A small item to be sure, but it is a nice touch.

I have not had the chance to optically test my scope, but I had some nice views of Saturn last week through my brand spanking new 22mm Nagler. The scope was not totally cooled down, but Saturn did look awesome.

Good luck.
Gregg
Augusta, Maine