Astro-Physics Mach1GTO vs Mach2GTO Mount - a comparison

[@ppi57]

As I mentioned in another video, I would love to see AP come out with a new; smaller, lighter, & readable (daytime) hand controller, yes?

[@ppi57]

Enjoying this while I do a PEC analysis with Pempro on my Mach 1 CP4

[@starastronomer]

Clear skies Rich!

[@skywatcherca]

Great video, but would you please just come to a (personal) conclusion - which one did you prefer, and summarize why you reached this conclusion? Thanks.

[@starastronomer]

Thanks. I sold the Mach1 when I got an 1100 mount. Then sold the 1100 when I got the Mach2.

[@garyemc2]

Great comparison video. I’d love to see you do a video on re-greasing the gears on the Mach 1.

[@starastronomer]

Thanks garyemc2 That's my buddies Mach 1. I know there has been discussions recently on the forum on doing that. If it was mine I would do a video. If Tom wants to try it I will do a video.

[@garyemc2]

@@starastronomer I watch all your astro videos. Very informative. You really know what you’re doing and explain things very well. Keep the AP videos coming!

[@starastronomer]

Many thanks garyemc2!

[@lindagiannarelli9646]

Can I request one additional comparison? Dimensions! It would be nice to know the LxWxD of the two mounts in various altitude positions, and whether or not a Mach2 would fit in a similar carrying case as one for the Mach1. They look to be close with the Mach2 being a bit taller with the DOVEDV10 compared to the Mach1's DOVELM2.

[@starastronomer]

Linda Well probably not as it may be some time before we can get together with both mounts. The mounts are almost the same physical size. It's so hard to give you an exact answer on case size without actually trying them. I wouldn't want to guess and give you a wrong answer. I think AP would be best to get those dimensions from.

[@frankies519]

Do you have an extended temp. model? Do you know the difference between extended temp and non-extended temp? I'm wondering what the $300 difference buys.

[@starastronomer]

Hello Frankie S. My model has the extended temp encoders. I was told the standard temp would be fine for my needs. BUT, for only $300.00 more after you've spent $10,000 plus it seemed like a no brainer for me to just get the highest spec encoders available for the Mach2 mount. I found the below information from AP's web site. Basically my a$$ won't be out in the extreme temps stated :) RESOLUTE Absolute Encoder: Operating: 0 degrees C to +80 degrees C (32 F to +176 F) Storage: -20 degrees C to +80 degrees C (-4 F to +176 F) RESOLUTE ETR (Extended Temperature Range) Encoder: Operating: -40 degrees C to +80 degrees C (-40 F to +176 F) Storage: -40 degrees C to +80 degrees C (-40 F to +176 F) Operation down to -40 degrees C (-40 degrees F) in non-condensing environments is guaranteed by Renishaw. However, we have not tested the extreme ends of the range ourselves. The encoder is also tough enough to survive the physical punishment of harsh environments with solid steel ring scales. NOTE: If you plan to operate the mount in severe cold temperature environments, please contact Astro-Physics regarding special lubrication requirements that may be needed.

[@frankies519]

@@starastronomer Hello my friend. Thank you for the quick reply to my question. I wasn't sure what the differences were and even though I searched, I was unable to find the info. I greatly appreciate your answer. I will opt for the extended encoders if I ever get a chance to purchase one of these mounts. I just got on the waiting list at A-P and some vendors, but the wait could be over three years. I'm 72+ years old and may not be around when my name gets to the top of the list LOL. I guess I'll have to make do with the mount I have until I find a Mach2 for sale or my name gets to the top. So, thanks again for the info and the swift reply. Clear skies my friend, and have a great New Year ahead. Frankie

[@starastronomer]

Frankie S For some reason KZbin (or something) was holding up comments. Just saw your reply tonight, sorry. Yes, the wait list sucks but AP products are worth it.

[@jeromeallison9010]

At ~16:35 Tom's Mach 1 power socket has a loose hex nut. He needs to snug that down. :)

[@starastronomer]

Jerome Allison Thanks. I actually saw that when I was putting the video together and notified Tom about the issue. Clear Skies!

[@cesarecannavo1134]

I liked so much to buy one Mach2. But is not sure that the Mach2 will coming in Europe this year..I have asked to Mister Baader J. to Germany, she can not give me one concrete answer that the mount Mach2, coming in Germany this year or next.. Possibly are all reserved just in USA people..

[@starastronomer]

Hello, Cesare Cannavò I don't think they are just being held for USA customers only. Did you sign up on the list from AP? I assume anyone from any country can or do you have to go through a dealer in Europe? I would email Astro-Physics and see what's up. Could be they have so many on the wait list from all over the world. I got on the list within hours of it going up the first day. I was very lucky :) Hopefully you can get one soon. It is a remarkable mount. CLEAR SKIES!

[@cesarecannavo1134]

@@starastronomer Ah okay. Thanks for your answer.. I just sending one Mail at company Astro Pysics.. Greetings..

[@blueridgedsia]

could the mach 2 hold a 12" newtonian?

[@starastronomer]

I do not know.

[@MrChausner]

Nice video

[@starastronomer]

Thank you Christopher Hausner.