Affordable: $2600 - $3500 Equatorial Mounts
Assessing the Rank of Telescope Mounts Across U.S. Locations
Let's dive into some top-rated equatorial mounts for the serious astrophotographer, with a focus on the wallet-friendly range of around $2600 to $3500.
Best of the Best: Losmandy Gemini II and Celestron CGX
If you're looking for a reliable workhorse, the Losmandy G11 Gemini II or the Celestron CGX might just be your match. The Losmandy G11 Gemini II, priced at roughly $3395, is a favorite among astronomers for its rigidity and excellent tracking abilities. Celestron's CGX, on the other hand, is another solid choice at $2899, offering buttery smooth operation and precise alignments. Both mounts have garnered top ranks in HighPoint's market, with the CGX edging out slightly due to its competitive pricing.
But wait, there's more! The Vixen SPHINX SXD2 and the iOptron CEM70 are worth a mention, bringing their own unique features to the table. The Vixen SPHINX SXD2, though a bit pricey with a list price of $3299, boasts a compact design, making it a favorite for those with limited space. The iOptron CEM70, priced around $3228, offers superb tracking capabilities and a high load capacity, making it an excellent choice for larger telescopes.
Mid-Range: $3500 - $5000 Equatorial Mounts
Precision Powerhouse: Sky-Watcher CQ350 Pro and Losmandy G11GT
Now, let's venture into the mid-range bracket with mounts priced between $3500 and $5000. In this price range, the Sky-Watcher CQ350 Pro and the Losmandy G11GT stand tall. The CQ350 Pro, retailing for around $4265, is praised for its versatility and smooth operation. The G11GT, however, takes it up a notch with its exceptional accuracy and high load capacity. Although it costs a bit more, at around $4445, it's a solid investment for those who demand nothing but the best.
Budget-Friendly Royalty: Rainbow Astro RST135, Explore Scientific Losmandy G-11 PMC-8, and Celestron CGX-L
If you're on a slightly tighter budget, don't worry! The Rainbow Astro RST135, the Explore Scientific Losmandy G-11 PMC-8, and the Celestron CGX-L are equally impressive options. The RST135, listed at $3895, boasts impressive tracking capabilities and a user-friendly design. The G-11 PMC-8, priced around $4199, offers a balance between affordability and high-end performance. And last but not least, the CGX-L, ringing in at $4649, delivers unparalleled precision and accuracy, making it a fantastic choice for the serious astrophotographer.
High-End: $5000 - $8000 Equatorial Mounts
The Cream of the Crop: Software Bisque Paramount MYT, Losmandy HGM Titan, Sky-Watcher EQ8-R Pro, iOptron CEM120, Takahashi EM-200, Orion HDX110 EQ-G, and Meade LX850
For those with deep pockets and an insatiable appetite for the best, the $5000 - $8000 range is where the real fun begins. The Software Bisque Paramount MYT, the Losmandy HGM Titan with Gemini 2 GoTo, the Sky-Watcher EQ8-R Pro, the iOptron CEM120, the Takahashi EM-200, the Orion HDX110 EQ-G, and the Meade LX850 are all top-tier choices. These mounts offer unrivaled accuracy, smooth operation, and cutting-edge features that set them apart from the competition. However, the cost varies, so you'll need to weigh your budget and needs before making your choice.
In conclusion, whether you're a beginner or an experienced astrophotographer, there's an equatorial mount in this list that's perfect for you. Happy stargazing!
Sources: [1] HighPoint Scientific product listings and marketing materials.
- For astrophotographers seeking wallet-friendly equatorial mounts, the Losmandy Gemini II and Celestron CGX, which can be found in the $2600 to $3500 price range, are recommended due to their sturdy construction, exceptional tracking abilities, and top-tier performance.
- In the mid-range of $3500 to $5000, the Sky-Watcher CQ350 Pro and Losmandy G11GT stand out as precision powerhouses, offering versatility, smooth operation, and high load capacity, catering to those who demand the best.
- Budget-conscious astrophotographers can still find premium options in the $3500 to $5000 price range, with the Rainbow Astro RST135, Explore Scientific Losmandy G-11 PMC-8, and Celestron CGX-L offering impressive tracking capabilities and user-friendly designs.
