New APO - TEC 140 possibly ?

[Retro Gear]

I have actually contacted the supplier of the APM TMB 152 F8 LZOS (ENS Optical) asking for some details/images etc. and have had a prompt reply (images being supplied tomorrow). They are only a couple (ish) hours away so viewing would be pretty straight forward. I have liked what I've read about APM LZOS scopes and this one seems to tick many boxes. It has the 3.5 inch Feathertouch focuser (CNC rings – is that good or bad?) and the scope is (according to the receipt/test certificate) dated 2006. It's also pretty close to my original budget.

I know designs change over time – just wondered if anyone has a view regarding the performance/quality on this scope manufactured about 2006. ENS seemed to get positive reviews on the suppliers review part of the forum and as such tick another box for me.

Thank you everybody for the help your giving

Will

[cs1cjc]

Perhaps off topic, I was very impressed by the TEC 140 image of a Europa transit in this thead: http://www.cloudynights.com/topic/535226-tec-140-and-a-europa-transit/?view=getnewpost!

[Retro Gear]

That is indeed a fantastic image – I'm going to do a search to see what sort of results could be expected from a TOA-130 which I think is likely to be the APO I'm going for. The items on UK ABS are very tempting though – I just don't have the experience/confidence to arrive at an informed decision about the optical quality of a used scope yet - still considering. Also sticking to my original budget of around £4000 for the scope leaves me with options on filters/eyepieces/ccd etc.  Thanks for the link.

Will