Vixen VMC200 or VC200, anyone have any experience

Sirs,

Has anyone used one of these scopes? What is your impression of it? I am thinking of replacing my SCT with one of these for my backyard scope. Is the contrast and sharpness that much better? Enough for the extra cost? Is the VC version worth the extra cost for imaging?
Not looking for an in depth review, just your observations or thoughts on these scopes. Any feedback will be appreciated.

Thanks in advance,
Ralph Skogen

I have no experience with either scope.

An open tube will be easier to cool than a catadioptric ota.
That may be a real advantage or not, depending on ones locale.
I find secondary obstruction size of scopes a bit over emphasized.

But, it has been my experience that a large secondary, as in one for imaging, combined with thick honkin' secondary spider supports, to be a contrast killer for visual use on planets.

Hi Ralph, what kind (and size) of SCT do you have now? If you already have an 8", than not much to gain. I think you will be happier with a 9.25" or a fabulous Mewlon 250.
Ivan

i have the vc200l. YOu have to decide what type of observing you do. This scope is not planets. The huge CO decreases the contrast. It is decent on DSO with edge to edge sharpness. Cool down is good and the scope is very light making it very easy to lift and mount. The stock focuser is ok, nothing to write home about. All in all a nice scope for general deep sky and non spectacular views of the planets.