I thought I wouldn't have been able to decide which telescope to buy without the need to create another thread, fortunately I found this one as I have come down to these exactly 2 scopes. I think buying a first telescope is one of the most difficult task I've done, as there is no a single all-around choice and it depends if one wants planetary or DSO and if I want to specialize in astrophotography. These are things one doesn't really have clear before the first one and I can see my self getting a 2nd scope at sometime later. I've been reading a lot on this an other forums and checking the website stores for a few days now and I have a better idea of what I want.
I have a question about the Explorer, as I understand the DS version is more suitable for AP but it is still possible to do observation with the provided eyepiece (28 mm). the 130-P version comes with 25 mm an 10 mm pieces. any experience using the 130P-DS for just observation? maybe good idea to get an extra eyepiece?
I also want some advice regarding the mounts, the Mak can be ordered with a synScan Az GoTo, it looks a good budget alternative, a total of 419 GBP. But thinking on a possible 2nd telescope in the future it maybe worth getting a better mount. For just 449 GBP it could be ordered with a Az GTi mount that also provides GoTo functionality with the app via Wifi and looks more sturdy. Or the Eq3 pro GoTo for 669 GBP, not sure If it really worth paying 250 GBP more for upgrading to a EQ3, will the EQ3 be a long term investment or It will it be better to aim for the EQ5?
In the case of the Explorer, it can be ordered with the EQ3 Pro GoTo for 589 GBP. would it be better use of money to order it with a EQ5 with the enhanced dual motor set for 562 GBP? how good are these motor drives?
In summary I could summarize I am between these alternatives:
1. Maksutov 127 with synScan Az GoTo for 419 GBP. And later another scope more specialized for DSO and AP.
2. Explorer 130 P-DS with the EQ3 pro GoTo or the EQ5 with dual motor for 562 GBP, maybe adding another eyepiece.
Thanks!