Skywatcher EQ3 Pro Synscan Goto Mount...good, bad or average?

[dazzystar]

Hi All,

Rather than an AZ-GTi, wedge and tripod I'm tempted to look into buying a used EQ3 Pro Synscan goto mount as I don't think it'll end up costing me much more. I will be controlling it through a Raspberry Pi running Stellarmate. As a newbie, can anyone chime in and let me know they're thoughts on this model of mount please?

Thanks

Daz

[Dr_Ju_ju]

As long as you don't put too much weight on it (limited), and that it comes with the better tripod, then for small payloads its ok...  but, keep a lookout for a used EQ5 mount, which is much more capable...

[dazzystar]

Thanks very much for the reply. Was considering an AZ-GTi but after speaking to some very helpful people I've been advised to get an EQ3 Pro.

[Stu1smartcookie]

Having used an EQ3-2 many times i think its fine with a small refractor for astro photography ... i actually used mine with a 130pds and it coped very well... what you do lose is the quick set up and go with the AZ-GTi . 

As above , a steel tripod as opposed to the supplied aluminium tripod would be preferable as stability is key . 

[dazzystar]

thanks very much for the reply.