Differences betwn 3 meade 8" SCTs

Started by toml, 11/02/2002 05:14PM
Posted 11/02/2002 05:14PM Opening Post
Things have slowed down here a bit lately, and although I am happy with my XT8 dob, (the decision that obsessed me about a year ago to the day), I can't help but occasionally wonder if I should have got an 8" SCT so I could track planets at high power and maybe dabble in photography (not trying to get published in S&T with a < $1500 setup, just get some nice pics here and there).

So, If I *WERE* to do it again, or if i *WERE* to buy an SCT on a budget (or not)...which would be the better VALUE (ie, not the cheapest price, nor the best scope, but best scope for the money)...

of these Meade 8" SCTs.

LX200 8"
LX90 8" (same ota? i don't care about gps, thats for sure)
and the LXD55 8" SCT (can that mount handle the 8" SCT? people have knocked it in combo with the 10" Newt, but is the 8" SCT better suited to it...or is the LXD55 with anything, just plain junky?)

I don't know all the differences in these 3...I wonder if they are the exact same OTA, in which case, one could compare price/value/features of the mounts only?

But which is best for the money and/or what is the diff?

Thanks.
TomL