Buy This, Not That! Celestron Edition.

Additional notes:
The CPC series is highly recommended
The NexStars are good also, but buy them for the optics, not so much for the mounts, which are cheaper than the CPC and AVX series. At this point, I would be wary of older grey-tubed NexStars. They weren’t as good as the newer ones, and the OTAs are hard to remove from the base. If you must buy a grey-tubed NexStar, don’t pay too much. In all NexStars, I would stay away from the 4. Step up to the 5 if you can. The NexStars start getting unstable once you get to the 8” size. The 5” and the 6” are the sweet spot for this mount.
I don't love the SLT series.
Skip the AstroMasters and PoweSeekers.
The FirstScope76 isn’t great but it is at least cheap.
Most of the 4”, 5” and 6” achromats are decent scopes and attractively priced. Be sure you have a sturdy mount, especially for the 6”.
Likewise, the various Maks are at least OK, but be sure you have a decent mount.
The old Celestron/Vixen SP-C6 was a neat little 6” Newtonian with a “sled” focuser. Very collectible.
The CG-4 is a good small-midsize mount. Just don’t overload it.
The comments about the CGE apply only to that model - the CGEMs are fine.
The new CGX mounts are quite nice, if you need a big mount.
C8 history page: Celestron C8 Overview (scopereviews.com)
www.scopereviews.com/C8History.html
Gary Bennett’s CGE cable mod is here: CGE Cable Replacement Kits Main (bendun.net)
www.bendun.net/CGE-UPGRADE-KITS.html
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[@bloodstone2000]

Nothing like morning coffee with Ed and a new Video! I just purchased a vintage Super C8 Locally from a gentleman that never EVER used it .. It's such a fantastic Scope..

[@edting]

Nice. I'm hearing a lot of that lately.

[@bloodstone2000]

@@edting I was truly astounded. He said he purchased it in the early 80s.. set it on the table and used it one night only to discover his ambition outweighed his level of expertise ... I have it mounted on an eq6r pro with my William optics z61 and guide scope riding on top. It is Such a great scope I find myself enjoying Visual again..

[@edting]

Yeah, and if you think about it, that's only a C8. Sometimes I wonder how many C11s and C14s are gathering dust in people's basements...

[@CD3WD-Project]

Nice find.

[@skygazerII]

@@edting I keep watching the advertisements, hoping to find one.

[@chrisshelton3504]

Back in the early ‘90’s, I ran the public viewing program at Law’s Observatory for the Physics Department at the University of Missouri-Columbia. In the main observatory, we had one of the original blue and white 16” Celestrons, along with 2 or 3 of the blue and white 10” Celestrons. I THINK the 16” was a donation from Kit Peak or from an individual that worked there. All of those telescopes are noted by the members of the Central Missouri Astronomical Association, the local astronomy club, as being really fine instruments. I have a special place in my heart for those blue and white Celestrons!

[@danzarlenga3542]

I went there in the early 80s and still remember those white Celetrons at Laws observatory!

[@chasemcniss2466]

Ed, thanks for the Celestron history lesson. Well done and enjoyed immensely. Chase

[@paulsmith1981]

I made a plywood base sitting on inflated trolly wheels with 3 motor bike jacks bolted to the underneath to move my hd 14 in and out of my garage. Since its is already balanced with the accessories already attached it takes me about 10 minutes to wheel it out and level it up using the jacks ready for use.. It takes me a lot longer setting up my 4 inch refractor. If you have a garage with level access to were you want to observe from larger telescopes can be easier to set up and put away than smaller ones.

[@james9789]

I've just bought a celestron C5 today nice to know you've given it the thumbs up love your knowledge and enthusiasm for scopes.

[@davidaaaa4611]

I have a C5 also. I would suggest you watch some videos on how to set up the go to. It is great when set up right.

[@james9789]

@@davidaaaa4611 hi David don't have the goto looks like I'm going to sell the C5 hope enjoy yours .

[@davidaylsworth8964]

In the “Buy This” category I’d put the C6R, Celestrons 150mm f6 achromatic refractor. I got mine for $250 Canadian and spent the money on a Moonlite focuser and some nicer rings. The optics are crisp and with a minus violet filter are really nice when used for photography. This is one telescope that’s worth a look-see. I’d also put the CGEM-DX mount in the “Buy This” category. It’s 50 lb payload capacity and reliability put it high on my list. My 10 year old CGEM-DX is the workhorse in my observatory. Interesting video Ed! Thanks!

[@edting]

I like those 6" achromats too. Cheap, unpretentious, gets the job done.

[@synchrome62]

Thank you for this Celestron showcase! I find the Ultima 8 with PEC deserves a mention! As a teenager in the mid 70s, viewing through an original orange tube C-8 at the local observatory is what got me hooked on the (compact) SCT design. It took me decades to finally buy the one I had always wanted: an Ultima 8 with PEC (late production). I’ve “modernized” it as much as possible by adding The Lumicon Sky Vector NGC (digital setting circles, the same Tangent product branded as Celestron’s Advanced Astro Master), the full line of Ultima (Japan) eyepieces, a few TeleVue Naglers, motofocus and motodec, upgraded heavy duty mount, Kendrick dew control and about any accessory Celestron made for the Ultima line in the 90s, including camera T-adapters and extenders. At the time it was the top-of-the-line 8 inch SCT. I still use it and have never regretted it, despite the weight! People at star parties are still impressed with the wonderful vistas it produces. I still don’t feel the need to upgrade to a more modern, and possibly better scope….

[@jimpoop]

I just got a vixen Celestron Premium 80 f11.4 refractor for 25$ at a yard sale. the optics are phenomenal. I just ordered a vixen Polaris to replace the alt az

[@gardnergerry1182]

Hi Ed, I just picked up a Celestron 8" dob from a club member $0. It's about 8-10 years old and the primary is dirty but it's a functional 8" which I have missed after giving away my Orion. This video series of yours is great! Really enjoying it!

[@edting]

$0, Gardner, excellent!

[@martynh5410]

Great informative video Ed! I enjoy your unbiased and honest opinions on Astro gear.

[@ronaldriggs9163]

I purchased a Celestron AstroMaster 130EQ-MD before this video came out. It is the biggest piece of garbage I have ever owned. I just sent an email to Celestron to see if I can get my money back! You are spot on regarding your opinion of this scope.

[@edting]

Hi, sorry to hear that. The AstroMasters are not good. Be glad you did not get a PowerSeeker!

[@Astro_Ash_Jeremy]

⁠@@edting Powerseeker 😂😂😂 If he would’ve bought that one, I can guarantee you, he would have set it on fire on his backyard

[@Beanerds]

I picked up the black C90 with focus via turning the whole body , average optics for sure but !! ,, It makes an awesome long distance ' Microscope ' , looking at wild life and insects at 50x from 6 feet is amazing ,, very good at that .

[@ciarancopas2590]

Thanks for your videos and knowledge Ed. I just upgraded from my C6 advanced to my new c8 HD AVX and love it with a couple of nice 2 inch baader eye pieces and diagonal because I seen a review where you had converted your SCT's to 2 inch. I spent from 1 am to 3 am hopping from Jupiter to Saturn and was amazed how much the extra 2 inches of scope delivered. I can't wait for the dark evenings for longer viewing time's. Keep up the great work and thanks so much Ed.

[@edting]

Good to hear, thanks for the report!

[@stijnvercamer9834]

"If you’re fortunate enough to have a permanent observatory, i’m jealous." -Ed Ting

[@CONDUCTORE77]

Spot on with the CGE Mount. Great and sturdy Mount but the electronics have a mind of their own.

[@skygazerII]

My older brother gave me his Celestron NexStar 8", it has been a treat! I've taken some Moon photos with it on the original mount. I deforked it, someone on Cloudy Nights fabs and sells Vixen saddles for the Nexstar 8, so now the OTA is on my Orion Atlas mount. (and can go back on the original mount, too!) I'm finishing up a roll off roof observatory, and hope to have it all back in operation soon.

[@edting]

Nice setup!

[@mxms533]

I have an original orange tube C90 that I got for a grand sum of $0. Got a .965 to 1.25 diagonal on the way. I also used a Baader Hyperion Mark IV Zoom screwed onto it straight through while waiting for the diagonal and was pleasantly surprised.

[@ACL84Fla]

Love your videos Ed. I have not had a telescope for several years and I am currently back in the market. Your videos have been a fantastic resource. It has been very frustrating trying to find new telescopes because pretty much everywhere I look is out of stock or on backorder. I would love to get an 8" dobsonian but am looking at other options as well. Please keep the videos coming. Psalm 19:1.

[@jasongrosser9910]

Thanks so much for taking the time to make these very informative videos!!!

[@glenndryfoos1826]

I have a Celestron Onyx 80EDF, and it’s a great GnG scope for visual when paired with a Vixen Porta II mount. I don’t do serious astrophotography, but have gotten some great shots of the moon with a DSLR attached.

[@edting]

I had one of those Onyx scopes too. I shouldn't have sold it!

[@robertromanelli9425]

Agree on the Onyx being great grab-n-go. Such a useful scope. I'm glad I still have mine.

[@chinzynator]

I have the Onyx too! Its my 3rd scope and my first proper, mid-tier telescope after the astromaster 130 and i love it to bits!

[@ericemanuelson5128]

Great Video! I would add my first telescope I bought four years ago to the not this side. The Powerseeker 127 that one gave night after night of grief. Enough so that I purchased a skyline 10inch Dob and other none Celestron telescopes. I did give Celestron another try with the 8se I liked it enough to buy a 4se ota then a few months ago bought the 102SLT all of which I really like. Someday I hope to add a 14sct that would probably be the last scope I buy. I do have an Orion Skyview Pro 8" on the way late week. I think I own most of the Orion telescopes you would put on the not this list. LOL I would put the BX90 on that side as much as I really wanted to like it. Gave it away but not before I gave away the powerseeker that I modified to work just ok. So to make a long story longer stay away from bird jones newts = short tube with high f/.

[@tjzambonischwartz]

There were three lines of Starhoppers over the years. The initial sonotube and black mount Star Hoppers (6" and 8" only) were made in-house by Celestron using weird conical mirrors made using similar manufacturing process to SCT primaries. The second line that had sonotubes and white mounts (sizes up to 17.5") were manufactured for Celestron by Discovery Telescopes in California (Discovery was also the OEM for Orion's Deep Space Explorer dobs which they outfitted a bit differently). These all had mirrors figured by Terry Ostahowski and are universally excellent optically if occasionally a bit crude and quirky mechanically. Discovery-sourced optics from this era are superb hand I have something of a soft spot for them. I have a 6" Orion Deep Space Explorer from this era with the Ostahowski optics and it's the sharpest scope I own. It was also my first "serious" telescope, having had my first job at the age of 14 to be able to afford it in 1998. It's been HEAVILY hot-rodded in the years since, and It's making my current attempt at the A.L. double star program a cakewalk. The tight and difficult pairs are no match for it. The metal-tubed starhoppers were made in Taiwan by GSO, but GSO's quality control at the time wasn't as good as it is now. I don't think they're as good as the sonotube versions from Discovery.

[@edting]

Hey thanks for that!

[@joebass5163]

Awesome info. I picked up an 8" sonotube with white base on 1/3/23. It's great to know it should have good optics. The mirror was very dusty and I cleaned it with running water and dish soap. It looks like new again. The rest of the scope appears in good condition.

[@MountainFisher]

In the 1960s I was really looking forward to Halley's Comet. All the way through the 70s I thought about it from time to time. Then in 1986 the beggar was on the other side of the sun and when it came back around it wasn't very visible in the Northern Hemisphere.

[@MikeLikesChannel]

By all accounts, major let down. The 2061 pass is forecast to be much better, I’d be 77 years old… no guarantees I make it.

[@MountainFisher]

@@MikeLikesChannel I'd be over 100 and all things considered I am sure I won't make it.

[@BlueTrane2028]

Bought an EQ2 mounted f/11 black tube C90 yesterday. The focusing is greatly improved by cleaning out the original grease and putting in some white Lithium grease. Don't "need" it, but it struck me as interesting and the price was right for me. $150, came with some Japan marked Ortho eyepieces that seem to sell for about $40 each by themselves. I'll give it a shot for short planetary sessions and go from there. The ideal opposite to the 12" LX200 I've been using a lot lately. ScopeStuff sells an adapter (intended for Meade) that is supposed to let you attach standard SCT accessories. Going to try one to get away from the .965 setup.

[@Ezekiel333]

Great video! Very thorough reviews and great knowledge on these products... Well done!

[@chadr2604]

I had a bad experience with the schmidt design. I was using a newtonian made to an extremely high level of precision. It has a very small secondary obstruction, zerodur mirrors, baffles all down the tube, on a very heavy manual equatorial mount. The SCT had shit for contrast and appeared dimmer even though it had a primary mirror 1" larger. The focuser had slop in it and the mount was not nearly as rigid. I reckon the C11 was built to a cost the 10" newtonian tube assembly alone costed twice as much as the whole C11

[@victorialadybug1]

My parents bought me one of those orange telescopes back in the 80's. Oh, the nostalgia.

[@thomashynes4042]

I still have my C-90 Spotting Scope From 1979

[@TimK-1971]

For the runaway mount, I wouldn't have thought that the legs can move fast enough to get away from you. Maybe put a leash on it.

[@smevox7490]

This channel needs many more subscribers!!

[@davidstanden480]

The first Celestron telescope I ever saw in person was a blue and white tube C10 The year was 1976. It was located at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio. It was proudly sitting in its blue fork mount atop a steel pier with 3 cast legs on Castors so it could be rolled outside. Wanted one ever since.

[@HelenoPaiva]

This guy has very decent content! Thanks a lot!!!

[@MikeLikesChannel]

Love my 6SE :) It's a great, portable size for trips to dark sites and sets up super quick.

[@gabedenis3111]

Hi Ed thanks for all the info on celestron telescopes I always enjoy your videos I live in Ontario Canada Gabe

[@BlueTrane2028]

Also, I regret selling my 8" sonotube Starhopper. That was a great telescope. The newer ones are basically modern Skywatchers.

[@BlueTrane2028]

Came back to report, I have found a replacement for my old 8" Sonotube Starhopper! My old one had the white base, this one has the black base. I don't notice a particular difference in altitude operation. The sonotube is much more comfortable to handle in the cold than a steel tube, so I've found my winter observing companion when not going with an electronic mount. Data points on price, the first one was $100, this one was $200 but came with a Telrad, which the old didn't have. I didn't "need" a fourth Telrad, but here we are. Both scopes were filthy and required thorough cleaning, the new one I think has the nicer mirror, so lucky me.

[@monsyschuller3561]

Hey Ed, doing Astrophotography since late 2018 and am now curious to look at optical astronomy. Just discovered your channel and videos and really like them and your calm and funny way to present, looking almost 1.5 hours to different of your videos now and we habe 2am in the morning here in Germany 😎 new subscriber earned, keep on going 😬

[@DirkDirk1983]

Kinda disagree about the CGE mount. If you just replace the cables with a good quality Cat6a cables there is no issue what so ever. Best to put also an extra dew cap over the connectors cause that is the problem. There is a signal going over the shielded part of the cable, and that signal controls the speed 🤦... It's a very nice and sturdy mount 👍🏼

[@jukeboxheros7021]

I do a lot of pawnshop trolling for vintage guitars and come across a lot of telescopes. lately I've(beginner) been getting the itch to buy one. my concern is laying down good guitar money on an old scope with who knows what problems. so I've been watching your channel lately to get ideas. I've always been fascinated with the night sky just never taken the plunge. I do have a big set of binoculars that are super heavy to hold up for extended periods and I think their not calibrated cuz I always see a double image, hence my itch for a scope. anyho, I'm enjoying your vids and thanks for putting them out.

[@spinynorman887]

"Celestron is certainly one of the giants in our hobby and needs no introduction from me"...then proceeds to introduce Celestron by giving its history.

[@sinningchicken]

Needs no introduction but damn if Ed doesn’t want to introduce them

[@williammalona]

So what?

[@aemrt5745]

I have an SP-C102 f/9.8 refractor. It is an Achro version of the wonderful 4in refractors. It is an excellent scope.

[@edting]

Ooh, you have one! Good for you!

[@aemrt5745]

@@edting YES! It has the wooden Polaris GEM, my wife loves the look and it is also a decoration in our upstairs hallway (great way to avoid storage issues!!!). It is my workhorse home balcony scope for everything from DSOs to planets and white light solar.

[@markihde4381]

One Celestron scope that's a bit of a sleeper is the 6" Advanced VX 6, f/8 achromat. I bought the package mainly to get the mount. The optics on the scope are decent for an inexpensive f/8 achromatic refractor but the focuser that comes with it is a Piece O' Junk. I replaced the stock focuser with a Moonlite Crayford focuser, which corrected the focuser sloppiness problems and also added some weight to the rear of the tube to mitigate the front-heavy balance point of the stock OTA. Now, it's a scope that I actually like to use.

[@christopherthomas3403]

👍 I've also got the nice black 6" f8 achromat. Picked it up quite cheap a few years back. It needed a bit of TLC and I also replaced the focuser. It's great for some visual sessions and I don't seem to get too much chromatic aberration. Maybe that's just my eyesight! So at present, it's a keeper.

[@edting]

I like those too. The main issue is people not being aware of how big those things are and they try to put them on undersized mounts.

[@markihde4381]

@@edting Yup! The Celestron mount it came with is pushed close to the limit, even for just visual use. It's not so much the OTA weight as the long moment lever of the tube that is the issue. That's why my Celestron 6" achromat rides on a Losmandy G11 mount and the Celestron mount is dedicated to my 80mm and 110mm APO refractors. Thanks, Ed, for putting out these professional quality telescope videos!

[@mitrovarr]

I used a 6" refractor (Skywatcher 150 ED) on an AVX. It's an lot of scope for the mount. It does work, but I think if I didn't already have the AVX I would go for something larger like an EQ-6R or something.

[@rishigaming9708]

If I can ever afford a C8, I'll get a C8 Corvette to go with it.

[@edting]

There was a local group that held an informal contest to see what the biggest scope you could get into a Corvette or a Miata.

[@rishigaming9708]

@@edting Haha, that's hilarious!

[@Big.Ron1]

Here in Phoenix there arent many decent scopes that come up for sale and those that do, wow their owners are proud of them. Even the kids/entry level scopes. I have been tempted but I know as soon as I buy one my new CPC 800 Edge will finally get here. I ordered it in April and last I was told by OPT is it should ship from Celestron in July so I will hopefully get it in August. Its too hot and too cloudy this time of year to spend time observing in the back yard anyway. Oh well. Thank you and be safe!

[@edting]

Phoenix is a great place to observe, Ron!

[@bopapa_1979]

I would really appreciate a video review of the Celestron Omni XLT 120.

[@k.h.1587]

I am pretty sure the sonotube star hoppers were made by discovery. I believe they had conical mirrors as well, and may have been also figured by discovery. I have seen a few over the years, and yeah that single stalk secondary was a thing, but they had 3 bobs knobs style adjusters. Coulters had no adjustment other than tweaking the bar itself. Original metal tube ones were made by GSO, and later ones by Synta. The skywatcher dob is the continuation of the starhopper, i think celestron hasn't had a branded dob in several years. Skywatchers ship from the old celestron factory which was converted to warehouse space after all manufacturing went to china some years back. Notice that synta started making the 14" orion dobs shortly after they had tooled up to make c14s in china. Coincidence, i think not.

[@Gofr5]

Bought my mid 2000's grey tube C9.25 few years ago on the used market for just $700 (CAD). What a steal that was. Unfortunately the mount I use it on has consistently had motor issues, of which I have been very slow to get fixed (though it's finally in the works), and so have not been able to enjoy it as much as I would have liked the past few years. That being said, the few times I have gone out with it, WOW! Sure the images are a little softer than I like and finding focus can sometimes be a pain because of that, but the details seen on both deep sky and planets/moon are something else. Considering the only other scopes I own are 90mm and 127mm, it's quite the difference. Can't wait to get my mount sorted out so I can finally get it out more.

[@chadr2604]

I reckon the SCTs really shine on portability and price vs performance. The best telescope is one you will use.

[@bababoey3315]

Celestron for appartement is very good 👍👍

[@bababoey3315]

Schmidt-Cassegrain

[@milllworks]

i dunno, i really loved learning with my 4SE back in 2014. i bought a couple televues, 32mm & 20mm, and that thing brought in some amazing views. worked perfectly on its mount, tho learning to use the goto function was quite interesting with the cumbersome hand controller. but all the alignment skills i developed on the 4SE transferred directly to my Evo 8” and I never had to collimate it either. IMHO it is just a nice, solid, reliable scope.

[@jonathankoons8721]

There is a 4SE near me. I want to see saturns rings, how well are you able to see saturn with it? Trying to find my first telescope but dont want to end up only being able to see a tiny fuzzy saturn

[@goldni4429]

Any thoughts on the CG-4 Mount? I bought a Celestron Omni 102 Acromat f/9.8 on one and so far love it!

[@edting]

It's a decent mid sized mount.

[@goldni4429]

@@edting Thanks for your input and for all the amazing videos,I've seen every single one!

[@dw6528]

Wonderful! Thank you Ed!

[@PafMedic]

I Have a Newer C-90,Bought a Diagonal,and a Cpl Extra Just Plossl Lens,Thats My Grab and Go,,Still Searching For A Smaller Lightweight Mount,Thinking Just Something With Slow Motion Controls❤️🙏🏼✨🔭🌏Clear Skies

[@BobGeogeo]

I'd add as a "buy" the Onyx 80 ED from 2005ish. It's a very well color corrected f/6.3 and super compact. Under 50x it's fine on a good photo tripod. Agena sometimes has a ~$65 dual speed add on for the focuser that helps a lot in the 150x range the scope delivers cleanly. There's field curvature from it being a short doublet. 24mm 82 degree eyepieces work for me, wider doesn't.

[@bowrudder899]

You didn't cover my telescope: the Celestron Omni XLT 150 Newtonian. Love the dual speed focus.

[@xxxburke]

Wow, the history of all these telescope companies reminds me of the telephone companies. Have you ever done a video where you briefly explain the major companies? I see seemingly identical telescopes on the market and am curious which are clones and which are the same manufacturer as the main brands.

[@avt_astro206]

Great Series Ed!! Enjoyed The Video!

[@nanocreations7630]

I received a Celestron Cometron 60 as a gift back around the time of the Halley's Comet circus. Plastic Tube + Sunlight = Warped Tube. Enough said. The warping was so bad I wonder if any of these things even survive today that work.

[@StarkweatherVision]

If you come across any "Bird-Jones" model, like the Celestron PowerSeeker 127EQ, then run away as fast as you can.

[@edting]

Yes, the PowerSeeker 127 may take the crown as the most hated Celestron telescope ever!

[@mikeisss79]

My very first telescope was a Celestron Powerseeker 70AZ, I received as a Christmas present. The mount was horrilble, even as a beginner I knew it was trash. The optics weren't anything to write home about either, but it did light enough of a fire for me to purchase a used Orion XT8I which was my first "real" telescope. The game changed from there.

[@edting]

Good job recovering from the PowerSeeker. Others are not so lucky and give up...

[@mikeisss79]

@@edting The scope came with a 4mm, 10mm and 20mm eyepiece as well as a 3x barlow. They were all lost when I lent the scope to my friend. It wasn't much of a loss, although the 4mm actually gave me one of the best views of Saturn I've had outside of my friends 14"ACF and the 24" refactor at Lowell observatory. It helped that I had stacked a 4x and a 2.5x Powermate together on my XT8I. Side note: It would be fun if you could ever do a review of the 24". Wishful thinking...

[@richardmassey1555]

@ed ting. What do you think of the 4se model?

[@edting]

The optics aren't very good. It's Celestron's answer to the ETX, which isn't a good thing. Upgrade to the NexStar 5se.

[@richardmassey1555]

@@edting thanks. I'm looking to get a good starter telescope and there's a 4se for sale locally at $350.

[@richardmassey1555]

@@edting what do you think of the Orion starblast 4.5?

[@MikeLikesChannel]

@@richardmassey1555 Starblast tabletop Dob (non-EQ version) is great.

[@davidborger1808]

I'd like to get Ed's review of the 6" refractor that come with the VX mount.

[@edting]

If it's the CR150 6" f/8 achromat, I did a review on Scopereviews a while back.

[@davidborger1808]

@@edting Yes, I just found that. Thanks!

[@tmrdarkstar85]

I own a newer C8 non-edge it had some issues brand new. yes celestron took care of it but honestly I feel these issues could have been avoided if they under went the same QA that the edge models do. So in my honest opinion buy an edge HD.

[@Jacobplayzvr-oc7ne]

3:00 begins

[@JoeJaguar]

yes alot nice scopes back then,

[@WhirligigGirl]

i've heard of severe reliability and quality concerns from AVX users. these are much hated mounts in discussions i've had and it's surprising to hear them recommended.

[@ColGs3b]

I liked my first AVX enough that I brought a second. I did have one dec board go bad a while ago (playing with homebrew mount control) but replacing it was easy. The power jack isn’t the best. That would be my biggest complaint. It tends to rotate and twist the internal wiring.

[@stevenemert837]

I suppose QA can be suspect. Perhaps a bad run? I have an AVX that works well, and I haven't heard complaints from other AVX owners in our club. I'm only visual so no experience with imaging tracking quality, but one thing I found was if I just do a two-star alignment goto isn't that accurate but as soon as I even add just one more star it becomes spot on.

[@darkwood777]

I don't understand what you mean by the comment "The SLT series are below the NexStars and I don’t love these." SLTs are Nexstars. I think you are maybe comparing Nexstar SLTs and Nexstar SE models? Or maybe the Nexstar Evolution?

[@chadr2604]

The slow motion controls and setting circles on the mount for the newtonian were very good. For visual use you didn't need electronics and motor drives.

[@deltacx1059]

0:39 speaking of which, have you ever seen any parts even for sale? I was thinking of building a similar style of scope but I don't know where to get the primaries with the hole in the middle.

[@edting]

Back in the day, spare parts of all kinds were common. These days, it can be almost impossible to source spare parts. I could use several focusers and secondary spiders/vanes myself right now.

[@gautambiswas7338]

Excellent review and recommendations. Can you please do a similar one on the Vixen range? Thanks

[@edting]

Thanks. I'm not sure I know enough about all the Vixen models to do a good job. Vixen has quirky products and you really need long term experience with them to do a good evaluation.

[@gautambiswas7338]

@@edting I understand. Thanks

[@phakeacount2228]

Dude, what about the universally reviled Celestron Power Seeker 127?

[@edting]

Haha, trying to keep things positive here....

[@puuxexil]

Is that the Bird-Jones design?

[@phakeacount2228]

@@puuxexil yes.

[@jamesgu1467]

Lol did not even make it to the short list of discussion-worthy for the video

[@setnes]

I came here to post the same thing. :)

[@RazorChrist]

Loving your videos! I'm just getting into telescopes and was wondering, what is your opinion on the Celestron StarSense Explorer LT 114AZ? I recently bought this telescope due to being on a tight budget and so far, I'm enjoying it. The phone app that goes with it doesn't like to align like 95% of the time, so I just use the red dot sight to align. When I've got the budget to upgrade, it will most likely be the Orion XT8 Dobsonian, as I've heard raving reviews and recommendations on that one from many sources.

[@edting]

Sadly, those inexpensive StarSense models aren't very good...

[@RazorChrist]

@@edting I normally do alot of research before purchases like this, but I didn't this time and absolutely wish I had. But that's okay...beginner mistakes. At least it gives me a the chance to get used to this type of telescope and it's maintenance. The Moon looks great in it, but sadly not much else. I was able to catch Jupiter and 4 moons with city lights all around...but it was a bit fuzzy. That's about it.

[@RazorChrist]

@@edting I was actually very impressed tonight. I live a mile from a large international airport, alot of light pollution. But I was able to see a pretty clear Jupiter + 4 moons, a decent but small Saturn, and lovely shots of Vega and Cyngus/Deneb. Sadly my mount couldn't get a decent recording of Saturn, but I was happy I could see it at all, given my conditions.

[@davidfrazier8725]

0.965" oculars with an Jason 60mm 900 mm fl Ref from Laurias in the early 1980's and thru an adapter an 40 mm 1.25" ocular, oh yeah! And, I still have it as well and it's still as good as the day I bought it for $300??? Let me add: 'Just' you a Zodiac book! out under a clear night sky! - a lounge chair optional???! - is a great start... I also got an Celestron C8 in mid 1980's to go with the Jason. My best advice for planets and just generally most of the general public... no less than 10" scope!!! Don't forget Zooms!? Zoom ocular and zoom Binoculars. 🪐

[@kopi23b]

Thank you Ed. I like your videos and now I know how Celestron started out and that it nearly merged with Meade. Bought the AVX and C9.25 combo used after a long time of researching whether it will be suitable for DSO imaging. Since there was no clear answer, I wanted to try it myself. First few weeks were a bit frustrating. But I have to mention, it was my first scope and mount and starting with that kind of focal length and the probably over weighted system wasn't the smartest thing to do. While go-to was usually spot on after a four (2+2calib) star alignment, I couldn't get consistent tracking past 25 seconds. But after I added an off axis guider, I've even taken five minute exposures which look fine to me. Maybe I will exchange the AVX for a more suitable mount once I've the space for a more permanent setup, but the C9.25 will definitely stay with me :)

[@erykmozejko3329]

I can recommend anyone with an SCT to get a focal reducer. Either for visual or imaging. It expands the range of what the scope is capable of. Easy to fit and tend to stay on during a session. Don’t normally have to take it on or off during a nights use or more than once depending on what objects you’re observing

[@kopi23b]

Second that. I think I was just using it once without the 0.63 reducer. Was lucky that I found a used one that quickly after the previous C9 owner had a bunch of accessories but not the reducer.

[@Gofr5]

Nice to know that the AVX CAN handle the C9.25 for AP. Sure, probably not the best combo (totally fine for visual though), but it's nice to know it is doable if persistent enough. I have a non edge C9.25 on the Bresser Exos 2 which is comparable to the AVX, though I'm strictly a visual user (but do have the 6.3 reducer on hand). It's good to know that I could use it for dipping my toes into AP should I ever decide to, though I think it's more likely I may end up going into EAA instead at some point. Good stuff.

[@xeon_one]

Is it possible to make an update to this video and links ? Try to buy my first telescopes. Thank you

[@ethanshortnacy3095]

I have a slt 130 and the alt motor constantly goes bad. Celestron help is non existent. I've learned to rebuild them after many hours of frustration.

[@edting]

Yes, this is the reason I steer people away from these lower cost (sub $1500-$2000) goto telescopes. They have issues with pointing accuracy and long term reliability.

[@jimconnoy6133]

I'd like to have a Schmidt-Cassegrain but they're out of my price range

[@dankahraman354]

The ones to your left, behind you, look like buys even though you say they aren't

[@shatterpointgames]

Lol made it like 5 seconds into the video, I love the premise of it. Popcorn ready.

[@edting]

Haha, thanks!

[@MarkGuinn59]

Hi Ed, I really enjoy your video's you are very thorough in your equipment reviews. I am not sure if this is the place to ask but have you had any experience with the VX Newts from OOUK? I am looking for a new telescope for some planetary and small galaxies. I was also looking at the Celestron 9.25 EDGE. Any thoughts?

[@edting]

Those newts appear to be the same (or similar) models sold under the Astro Tech, GSO, etc names in the US. They are good values for the money. Just be sure you have a nice sturdy mount for it!

[@dewey66904]

Hello Ed, Ive been binging on your videos over the last month. Great information and videos, Thanks. I have a question if you or some of your watchers have the time. Ive been looking for a new telescope and purchased a new Celestron 9.25 Edge HD. Now you said this is one of your favorites (REGULAR VERSION). I had to take what I could get. LOL. Question is, What is a good Eyepiece upgrade for this scope. A brand or a Kit will be fine. I thought of the Luminos Pieces but I thought I would get some input. Thanks again

[@edting]

Hey good job on the 9.25. I'll give the usual advice not to buy anything at this time. There's plenty to keep you busy for a long time, and in the beginning eyepieces are usually not your bottleneck. Also eyepieces are a highly personal decision; what I like may not match what you like. If you must know, on these SCTs my favorite eyepieces are the TeleVue 27mm and 35mm Panoptics. Hope this helps.

[@dewey66904]

@@edting Thanks Ed. It does come with a 2" 23mm Which is close to that. I was thinking of doing the Luminos barlow and a .7 reducer. Holy cow (lol) I just googled those eye pieces. I need to sit down. Thanks for your time and have a great day

[@jktz122]

modern sct meaning the orange colored tube?

[@emilgeorgiev1074]

you could write a list in the video or in the description because I couldn't follow and forgot what you said

[@guyjordan8201]

My understanding was the Ultima 2000 was a problem child. Do you have experience with it?

[@edting]

I've seen a few U2000s. They were decent for their day. Yes, they had problems but all goto scopes from that era had issues.

[@phottomatt4202]

What is considered an old celestron? I'm looking at a 2004 era nexstar 130slt from a friend for $100, only used a few times still has original box.

[@edting]

I am not fond of the SLT series but $100 is a bargain!

[@JuanHV2000]

I Want to buy a telescope Between this 2 options .,,,Wich would you buy : Celestron Omni 150 mm XLT vs el Skywatcher 150 mm EQ3 Thanks

[@edting]

You picked the same scope. I'd still rather see you with an 8" Dob, but these are OK. Be aware, these Chinese-sourced 6" f/5 reflector OTAs vary a lot in quality. You might get a good one, you might get a clunker.

[@JuanHV2000]

@@edting Thank you so much for your advice

[@CD3WD-Project]

I have seen the 6 and 8 go for more then MSRP sometimes way over. I guess I will lucky to get my SE6 at MSRP as Amazon sold out of there stock in 10 hours.

[@stevenemert837]

Over MSRP and selling out fast appear to be a result of the 2020 and 2021 "I need a hobby during COVID lockdown" phenomenon. Hopefully things will return to normal soon.

[@CD3WD-Project]

@@stevenemert837 that or maybe some really nice stuff come up for sell on the cheap.

[@kyriakosmak]

Great video 👍🏻

[@TheAngryAstronomer]

Quite surprised to see none of the Powerseekers in the not to buy category. Also Do you own any Sky-Watchers or William Optics scopes? I've never seen any in your collection.

[@edting]

It's in the description. I had to edit for time...

[@CarpeNoctem42]

Would have loved to see the AstroFi range in this video...

[@endautrestermes]

Hello Ed, I'm leaning towards buying a used C8 and I wanted to have your opinion about two things. 1) I'm really not into astrophoto, is it ok to put it on some non Goto AltAz mount like the Explore Scientific Twilight I AZ (8kg max) ? Or will it be too hard to find any deepsky object without goto due to its focal lenght ? 2) I know your love for 8" dobsonian, but can the C8 replace it ? I'm always frustrated that my dob cannot travel with me and feels that my Short tube 80 is great for planetary and the most obvious DS objects, but has its limitation. (I don't have the budget to run a collection I'm afraid and I will have to sell in order to fund a C8) Thanks for your video's Ed, I've been enjoying the hobby for 2 years now thanks to your advice's. JP

[@edting]

I don't care for the Twilight mount. It isn't that study, tracking by hand at 2000mm gets tedious, and the last ones I saw were too short for a seated adult. Think about it, if this was the solution everyone would be doing it. But you hardly see anyone using this configuration. I'd still get the 8" Dob.

[@endautrestermes]

@@edting ok thanks for the advice on the twilight. Maybe a sturdier alt-az mount with a focal reducer ? I love my dob, but my town is too polluted and I can't travel with it :(

[@endautrestermes]

@@edting used to have a Nexstar mount on a C5, that mount was so terrible (not sturdy at all) I sold the whole kit

[@michaelcoburn655]

Hi Ed. Really enjoying your videos. Do you or anyone else reading have any thoughts on Celestron's Advanced VX 6" refractor? I'm considering this scope but not sure how good its optics would be. Thanks in advance.

[@grandmasteryoda9893]

oh yea you missed one. the nexstar series are one best budget scope and have great optic.

[@paddyproo]

If you have any recommendations for beginner telescopes for £300 or less, i would like it to be reflector and preferably it should look at the planets and some deep space objects

[@edting]

I have several buyer's guides on this channel. Check them out. The best beginner's scope is still a 6" or 8" Dobsonian. Do not buy a cheap scope, that is the biggest mistake beginner's make.

[@stevencrinson7986]

There are so many telescopes but I have been looking at buying either this Celestron Nexstar 5 SLT GOTO Telescope or this Celestron 127EQ Astromaster Maksutov-Cassegrain Telescope both from my local camera man. What do you think all automated with AA batteries (5 SLT) or nice and manual with the 127EQ ? I would welcome an opinion :)

[@edting]

I wouldn't get either of those. Avoid all AstroMasters and PowerSeekers (see my review of the PSeeker 127, these all share parts). The SLT is a lower grade NexStar and I'm mixed-to-positive on the regular NexStars. I have a slight preference for the C5 OTA over the Mak. If you want a C5, go up to the regular NexStar 5. Keep in mind *all* goto systems are flaky at times, don't expect perfection.

[@m.sabir21]

Thanks for sharing excellent info. I am beginner, just got interested in astronomy and looking at planetary objects, i am located in united Arab Emirates. Please guide how is this Celestron NexStar 4SE Maksutov Telescope? Can you recommend some thing else, if it is not a suitable pick. The 8 inch that you recommended unfortunately is not available or being shipped to uae. Thanks

[@dschenk952]

Hi Ed, I'm in the market for a refractor and mount, trying to stay under 2K and am looking at the Omin SLT 120 and the AVX 6" refractors from Celestron. I didn't see you mention them in the video so I'm researching both. What do you think? A simple thumb up or thumb down would suffice for me. Thanks, Ed.

[@edting]

Not bad choices, but both scopes are undermounted. I'm seeing a ton of this lately. Manufacturers are trying to keep prices down so they use lighter mounts than they should. In the Omni, downsize to the 102. That 6" achro is a beast, I'd seriously consider downsizing that as well (or get the AVX/C6 combo). I have a review of the 6" achro on Scopereviews, you might want to check that out.

[@dschenk952]

Thank you for the input, Ed. I went with the 120 and have a AVX mount already I will use it on. The CG-4 mount will hold an 80MM Svbony scope. Thanks again.

[@wresteban]

Hello Ed! How do we join the club?

[@edting]

if you're local, we're at nhastro dot com.

[@brodymk45]

i bought a celestron 129eq powerseeker for 200$ at a hobby shop but now the gears kind of work

[@mariop135]

Hi Ed, great videos. I recently purchase my first regractor. I bought it used, it only came with one eye piece. I was wondering if you would recommend me a barlow for it. It's a Celestron C102-HD 1000 F/L.

[@edting]

Good job on the C102HD. I like those. Resist the urge to buy more stuff. There's plenty here to keep you busy for a long time. If you feel like spending money, get yourself some books, including a star atlas.

[@HiroNguy]

Telescope Wizard! 😉😄