So I think I'm ready to make an investment in a mount and I've started to check out options. My current setup:
Scopes: Celestron 11HD, TS130
CGEM-DX mount (hyper-tuned) mounted on permanent pier with WiFi/LAN connectivity (live internet also)
Various cameras, hyperstar, guiding setup, etc.
My budget to invest is around $6,000, and that includes selling my CGEM-DX at some point soon. My goals are to get something with improved pointing accuracy and tracking, and something I can operate remotely as much as possible. I'm also pushing the weight limit on the CGEM, so I need something that can support minimum 60+ lbs. So far, based on what I've researched on the vendor sites and in the forums, I'm considering the following as options:
Celestron CGX-L ($3000 new)
Pros: Cheapest option, supports wifi module, dual dovetail saddle,
Cons: No LAN connection options, no USB 3, no powered USB2?
Performance?
AP Mach1GTO ($5500 used)
Pros: excellent tracking/pointing, PC4 control box includes LAN/WiFi
Cons: used, okay for permanent mount?
iOptron CEM120EC ($5500 new)
Pros: heavy payload support, good/avg tracking?, LAN/WiFi support
Cons: US support?
Paramount MX ($6000 used)
Pros: excellent tracking/pointing,
Cons: used, most expensive
Here are my questions for you:
Thanks in advance!
JW
Scopes: Celestron 11HD, TS130
CGEM-DX mount (hyper-tuned) mounted on permanent pier with WiFi/LAN connectivity (live internet also)
Various cameras, hyperstar, guiding setup, etc.
My budget to invest is around $6,000, and that includes selling my CGEM-DX at some point soon. My goals are to get something with improved pointing accuracy and tracking, and something I can operate remotely as much as possible. I'm also pushing the weight limit on the CGEM, so I need something that can support minimum 60+ lbs. So far, based on what I've researched on the vendor sites and in the forums, I'm considering the following as options:
Celestron CGX-L ($3000 new)
Pros: Cheapest option, supports wifi module, dual dovetail saddle,
Cons: No LAN connection options, no USB 3, no powered USB2?
Performance?
AP Mach1GTO ($5500 used)
Pros: excellent tracking/pointing, PC4 control box includes LAN/WiFi
Cons: used, okay for permanent mount?
iOptron CEM120EC ($5500 new)
Pros: heavy payload support, good/avg tracking?, LAN/WiFi support
Cons: US support?
Paramount MX ($6000 used)
Pros: excellent tracking/pointing,
Cons: used, most expensive
Here are my questions for you:
- Are there options that are important I should consider?
- Mounts that I should consider that aren't listed?
- I like the idea of buying new, but I also like the idea of getting more for my money with used equipment - what has been your experience with the lifespan/reliability of AP and Paramount used?
- The CGX-L is pretty new, what has been your experience with it?
- This will be permanently mounted on a pier in a roll-away observatory in Ohio - any cautionary advice on operating in humid/cold conditions?
Thanks in advance!
JW