Nexstar 6 SLT

[Beardy30]

Hi all,

would really appreciate opinion here...so after weeks of research and help on here I’ve opted for a Nexstar 6SE .(that’s the scope for me I don’t want a dob)..however the dealer I’ve spoken to has suggested the Nexstar 6SLT which we know has a less stable mount but it’s £200 less ...I’m only into back garden observing not photography so I’m wondering if this would be a good deal and to put the £200 towards other bits.   The 6SLT has the same OTA so it’s just down to whether the SE mount would make enough of a difference to warrant the spend.  The dealer has openly said the SLT is not as robust but it’s perfectly functional.

Amy thoughts would be appreciated. 

 

 

[johninderby]

Worth reading this comparison between the mounts. In particular the section on SLT vs SE mounts.

https://telescopeobserver.com/complete-nexstar-guide-se-slt-evolution-comparison/

Edited April 13, 2020 by johninderby

[Beardy30]

Thanks but I want first hand advice , read this but doesn’t give opinion based on actual practical use ..be good to speak with someone who has the Nexstar 6 SLT ..

[johninderby]

Celestron gives the max weight capacity of the SLT mount as 8lbs and the SE mount as 12lbs and they give the weight of the C6 OTA as 10lbs. 

[Beardy30]

That’s interesting John - however I was advised that the 6SLT was perfectly functional on the SLT 

[johninderby]

Having had a 127SLT and a an 8SE I’m famiiar with both mounts. I found the 127 to be just adequate on the SLT mount and think while the 6 SCT OTA  would work have my doubts about the stability. The SE mount is much sturdier with better features and will be far more stable with the 6 OTA.

It’s the stability issue that concerns ne about the 6SLT. I’ve been looking for proper reviews of it but yet to find one. There is a bit of a review on FLOs website but does confirm my concerns. 

”The mount is light which is great for transport but indeed will wobble a bit when focusing. It will settle down after a few seconds and stays stable after. It might be a bit tricky when focusing but if you get the trick it is no big deal.”

Edited April 13, 2020 by johninderby

[Beardy30]

👍🏼

[John]

Manufacturers are guilty sometimes of undermounting scopes. I can think of a number of other examples of a rather poor matches. Also, when you get a dew sheild on the scope (essential when maks and scts are used) the tube gets longer and puts more strain on the mount.

[Beardy30]

Good point!