SBIG ST-7E

Any thoughts on a used SBIG ST-7E? It would be my first CCD and it would be used with a CPC 11" f/6.3. Could I learn with this device and still take some nice shots?

Any thoughts would be GREATLY appreciated!

Thanks

Thomas Michaud said:

Any thoughts on a used SBIG ST-7E? It would be my first CCD and it would be used with a CPC 11" f/6.3. Could I learn with this device and still take some nice shots?

Any thoughts would be GREATLY appreciated!

Thanks

This is a small chip. Think "f/3.3" to begin with...that will also make guiding less critical.

8)

The big drawback would be the small chip. A 100% zoomed image does not come close to filling a computer screen. And, of course, it is also harder to get the object of your desire on the chip unless you have good pointing accuracy.

On the other hand, it does the stuff the big boys do, and does it well. You get to use the image acquisition, calibration, and image-processing programs the $10,000 cameras do. You just do it on much smaller files. And you can make great pictures with it.

So, if you can get a good deal on one, take it.

Paired with a good wide-field refractor, you can do a lot of practicing, and produce some good shots. Put it on the 11 incher, even with 6.3, you might have trouble getting the object on the chip.....but you can overcome that problem.

Alex

The ST-7e has the same size chip as the Meade DSI II. The new DSI III has a chip about 2x bigger.
Here is a shot using the DSI II and a .8 focal reducer, this would be about what you would expect with the ST-7e I would think.
Without the focal reducer the image is a bit smaller.

Attached Image:

Can I interject a heresy here? Nobody, and I mean NOBODY holds SBIG in greater regard than I do. Their cameras are insanely great.

And yet...for a new imager on a budget, especially one wanting color pictures and the ease of use that comes with a big chip...it's hard for me not to say...yes...wait for it...

Get a Canon Digital Rebel XT or Xti.