I would not dissuade anyone from the ST-7, as SBIG has a remarkable
reputation, and images speak for themselves. I would only point out that
the MX5c (one shot color) is less than half the cost, and the 12 bit MX5 is
less than 1/3 the cost of the ST-7. I have found that Starlight Express is
also a most reputable company, and as an owner, endorse them highly. Might
give you some extra moola for focusers and other odds 'n' ends. Although
the MX5 does not have the resolution of the ST-7, I have yet to see any
blooming in my images. Also, having one shot color is unique advantage. IMHO.

Like you, I always study and agonize over purchases of such magnitude. In
several years of such, I have found that some things I grew out of, and
others grew into. All were learning experiences, but things I grew out of,
I could sell with a reasonable loss on Astromart, and upgrade to a product
when I could afford it, or necessity dictated. Fear not, you can't go
wrong. CCDing in any brand is hard work, most educational, and rewarding.

Speaking of Astromart, you might want to check for a used unit. SBIG, I
think, will upgrade to the 'e' model for you.

Happy Hunting...
Chris Margaritis



> I'm finally trading up from my $70 Quickcam to an ST7 CCD.

>

> When making a purchasing decision of this magnitude I always put myself
through agony while I
> examine every minute detail/feature/alternative. I have read many books -
read many threads on
> MAPUG - and worked through countless detailed web sites - and so I
<think> I have some small
> grasp of the issues involved with matching CCD to Telecope and
understading something about the
> operational issues and differences between different CCD's. Now I am
looking to other MAPUG
> members to help me in my final hour of need.

>

> I own a Meade LX200 10" F10.

>

> I am thinking of the ST7-E which is the new enhanced version of the ST-7.
This will be the Non
> Antiblooming variety. Will the Non-ABG version cause me greater
difficulty than the ABG variety?
> (Bear in mind that I never walk away from a challenge - especially if the
result is better than
> would be possible otherwise).

>

> I will also be getting the F6.3 focal reducer - and also the 3.3 reducer.
I believe with those
> attachments that I will be able to attain the type of pixel resolution
that is appropriate for my
> telescope / the ST7.

>

> I don't have any electronic focusing control on my LX200 although I was
planning on getting the
> Meade electric focuser (I know I'll probably have additional image shift
issue to deal with but I
> cannot afford a JMI NGF non-image-shifting-super-dupa variety focuser
right now - and anyway -
> doesn't having one of those limit the accessories (like focal
reducer/color filter wheel etc) that
> you can use due to the reduced focus range you can achieve)?

>

> I have looked at many web sites showing examples of images attained with
the exact same
> configuration as I am planning - and the images were in my mind
spectacular.
>

> I would be happy to receive help/advice on this from anyone - especially
anyone who has already
> got an ST-7 hooked up to their 10" F10 LX200. I also want constructive
advice from anyone who
> thinks I could be making a mistake here - or wants to recommend something
else other than an
> ST7-E. A year ago I would have probably gone for a cheaper 416XT - but
based upon the stories
> here and elsewhere I don't think i'll go down that road!

>

> Thanks for listening to my ramblings!

>

> -Liam Kennedy

> http://www.thekennedys.net/astronomy

>

>

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