Fast 8" reflectors?

[GordonCopestake]

Has anyone got any experience using fast 8" newts? I was looking at the GSO 8" f/4 from telescope service but can't find many reviews.

I'm on the lookout for a second scope for my dual scope mount and was thinking of a C8. However also in the back of my mind is a newt given the lack of planets at the moment.

Any thoughts? TIA

[GordonCopestake]

Spotted that skywatcher do the explorer 200 in a f/5 version, I know people here have the explorer, what are the thoughts on those?

[GazOC]

Good scopes, what were you thinking of mounting it on? It needs a EQ5 really....

A f4 Newt is going to show a lot of coma, f5 isn't do bad.

[GordonCopestake]

Was thinking of the alt az, not sure of the weight of the OTA's but if it's under 10kg i'll be ok. Telescope-service do the Orion 8" f/5 version for £200 which seems a bargain. Might keep my eye on astro buy/sell though. The C8 still seems like a good choice though but i think i want that wider field

[GazOC]

A 1000mm scope on a alt/az is going to be a "challenge".

[GordonCopestake]

which is why i wanted it as fast as possible hehe. For ease of use the C8 wins hands down

Thers always a FR i guess

[GazOC]

Have you thought about a 120/150 mm f5 refractor? They should be OK on a grab and go alt/az, cheap as chips as well.

[GordonCopestake]

I did look at the 6" f/5 but the CA might get on my nerves compared to my ED100/ED80

Plus i'm looking for as much aperture as i can get and a cheap newt seems to fit the bill

Saying that just spotted theres a C8 on astro buy/sell for £320....

Not sure, not going to buy anything just yet anyway as im skint till the end of the month