> I agree with Richard Shell 100% that most of the bad comments about the
> 201XT come from the inability of newbies to focus the unit. I've
> repeated 'til I'm blue in the face that it's parfocal with the Meade 9
> mm IREP but not everyone has heard these comments as subscribers come
> and go.

Hi Greg -
Well, the Mapug archives provide all the info to newbies. The problem is
that
the 9mm Meade is $160, and from what I gather, users really don't know how
to use or actually dislike the adjustable reticle. It can be a pain in the
butt if one doesn't have a lot of patience, and Meade provides no
instructions on how to actually use it. I personally like it, but when you
look at the price, you are getting up into the Nagler territory. Plus, most
users already have a cheaper crosshair eyepiece to do their polar alignments
and can't see a reason to spend a bundle on another. This is not my
opinion, but rather based on feedback I have received here. If I were a
brand new user and had the knowledge, I would not hesitate to buy the Meade
if I were intending to use a 201XT. And yes, I do believe the 201XT is a
relative bargain in the market, simple to use, and tracks admirably. It
does take a night or two to learn the push sequence, but other than this, I
really can't find a flaw with it.

Just as a btw, since introducing the STI-201 autoguider focuser this week,
in addition to orders, I have been bombarded by users of the SBIG ST-4 who
would like to see a similar product. This took me somewhat by surprise
since I had thought the ST-4 was relatively bulletproof in all respects. I
guess there is no perfect autoguider on the market as yet. Our sales of our
focuser for the STV are going well also. Figure that one! :)

Clear Skies!
Richard

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