Possibly looking for a new mount.

[Galen Gilmore]

I've had my single axis motor EQ5 for 3 years now. I think it may be about time for an upgrade, or at least soon. 

I know about the HEQ5/Sirius, probably the safest bet out of any mount, tried and tested. Although they are on the expensive side of things for me, and because of their popularity finding a used one has been difficult.

I have looked at the Celestron AVX as well, but have seen mixed reviews among astrophotographers. But it is more within my price range, and has the payload capacity for what I need.

Anything that I am missing here? I'm based in America, but am willing to buy from FLO.

[johngm]

What is the payload capacity you are looking at ?, this will help the members give you some guidance. If you are on a tight budget, you could look at upgrading your own mount with this kit.

https://www.firstlightoptics.com/sky-watcher-mount-accessories/synscan-pro-goto-version-3-upgrade-kit-for-eq5.html

you should be able to get this stateside and save on international duties

John

[Galen Gilmore]

29 minutes ago, johngm said:

What is the payload capacity you are looking at ?, this will help the members give you some guidance. If you are on a tight budget, you could look at upgrading your own mount with this kit.

https://www.firstlightoptics.com/sky-watcher-mount-accessories/synscan-pro-goto-version-3-upgrade-kit-for-eq5.html

you should be able to get this stateside and save on international duties

John

Currently my scope + camera + finder = 6.5kg. Adding a guide scope to that would bring that to 7-8kg ish. I just don't feel comfortable with an EQ5 for imaging with that weight.

[Danjc]

Do you have a budget in mind ? 

I have a HEQ5 currently carrying about 8kg which I’m happy with but wouldn’t want to go to much more weight wise (manufacturer states 11kg max payload for AP) 

If I could choose again I would have saved a little more and gone for a EQ6-R Pro to future proof myself a little better. 

If you are maybe wondering about the EQ6-R PRO and NEQ6 PRO this is taken from FLO site.....

 

EQ6-R PRO vs NEQ6 PRO: 

The EQ6-R has a higher payload, is belt driven (reduces backlash and improves guiding) has a redesigned body with a carry handle (easier to transport and setup) and improved latitude adjustment (more sturdy and effective over a wider range of latitudes).  It uses an RJ45 plug for the handset connection (better than the DSUB used by the EQ6, especially in the dark!) and a screw-on power connector (more secure and reliable than the NEQ6 PRO's push-fit power connector). It also features a USB port has a new 'SNAP' camera control port so you can fire a DSLR camera automatically from the mount. 

[Galen Gilmore]

2 hours ago, Danjc said:

Do you have a budget in mind ? 

I have a HEQ5 currently carrying about 8kg which I’m happy with but wouldn’t want to go to much more weight wise (manufacturer states 11kg max payload for AP) 

If I could choose again I would have saved a little more and gone for a EQ6-R Pro to future proof myself a little better. 

If you are maybe wondering about the EQ6-R PRO and NEQ6 PRO this is taken from FLO site.....

 

EQ6-R PRO vs NEQ6 PRO: 

The EQ6-R has a higher payload, is belt driven (reduces backlash and improves guiding) has a redesigned body with a carry handle (easier to transport and setup) and improved latitude adjustment (more sturdy and effective over a wider range of latitudes).  It uses an RJ45 plug for the handset connection (better than the DSUB used by the EQ6, especially in the dark!) and a screw-on power connector (more secure and reliable than the NEQ6 PRO's push-fit power connector). It also features a USB port has a new 'SNAP' camera control port so you can fire a DSLR camera automatically from the mount. 

I'm trying to buy $700 - 800 USD, I was looking to see if maybe I could buy just the mount head from somebody, because I already have the tripod from my EQ5. The EQ6 and NEQ6 are out of my price range unless I'm able to find an absolute steal.

Edit: I actually did find a crazy steal on an Orion Atlas EQ-G for $560. Only problem being that it doesn't come with a tripod or counterweights. Do you happen to know if the skywatcher tripod and counterweights would work with the Orion product?

Edited January 27, 2020 by Galen Gilmore