8" dob vs 6" refractor

[Japclev]

I started imaging using a orion xt8 dob and got nice shots of jupiter but decided to upgrade to a tracking scope in the Celestron Adv X 6" refractor. The tracking is nice however, I am curious as to the color differences when imaging Jupiter. I feel like the refractors colors do not pop like the reflector did. Is this just me? or is there that much of a difference? 

I used a ZWO as290 pro color camera on both scopes. I used sharpcap with similar settings and autostacked, registax.

[johninderby]

The 6” refractor you are using is a achromat and will suffer optically compared to the newtonian scope (xt8 dob) you are using. To make a fair comparison you would need an ED or APO refractor which has optics far better than an achromat. 

The 6” achromat is not a bad scope and good value for money but won’t have the sharp image or colour purity of the APO but is much more affordable. A 6” ED or APO will be far more expensive. 

Achromats perform better at low to medium power where they can give nice views but when you push the magnification that’s where their limitations show.

The newtonian scope such as your dob will give the best views for the money which is why they are so popular.

 

[Japclev]

Thanks for reply, I read about apo vs achro and thought it might be it.. Thanks for confirm

[johninderby]

You’ve got a good scope so enjoy it. If you want to scare yourself look up the prices being charged for a 6” APO.

[Japclev]

Overall for price its okay, the focuser is terrible.. It has decent views comparable to dob and I do like tracking... The advx mount I got also has terrible gears which I had to fix recently... So I'm not overly happy..

Maybe next step up for me will be

Orion EON 104mm ED-X2 f/6.25 Triplet Apo Refractor Telescope

Any thoughts on that scope?

 

Edited August 3, 2021 by Japclev

[johninderby]

It’s a very nice scope and available under several brand names.

What country are you located in? Would help to make recommendations as while this forum is UK based it has members from all over the world.

Edited August 3, 2021 by johninderby

[Japclev]

US, no problem, just checking if I ever make jump to 3,000$ range..