SV105 or TSA 102

Which one would you get, and why? (not considering price as a factor.

Rich Camarda said:

Which one would you get, and why? (not considering price as a factor.

I am a visual observer, so I would question the value of either scope (for me), although the quality of the optics in either scope are superb (quality of the machining is comparable). They are both 4 inch objectives. For imaging the Stellarvue has a slightly wider field of view. Tak is something of a proprietary brand which might annoy some folks.

So, do you own a Holland and Holland or a Purdy?

Hey Rich,

I recently considered the same 2 scopes. I chose the Tak because I loved past examples of their equipment that I had used. Not only were they superb, but they were about the finest optics I have looked through. Build quality was also superb. It is a classic f/8 which is very good for visual as well. Lastly, the TSA has some actual field reports as it has been out a good bit now.

That said, I had a long talk with Vic Maris and I think he will also a provide a superb instrument.

Hard to imagine you would be displeased with either. Too bad you couldn't try them both, something might jump out at you.

Good luck, it's a great choice to have to make.

Take care,
john

There's very few SV105's in owners hands so the optical performance of that scope is not firmly established. It's only been on the market for a short time.

The Takahashi TSA-102 has been available for quite a while longer and has earned an impeccable reputation. Last year, an experienced amateur astronomer tested a large number of refractors in that size range and the TSA-102 (along with a TMB 4") came out on top.
http://www.cloudynights.com/ubbthreads/showthreaded.php/Cat/0/Number/2624353
(The latest version of SV105 wasn't available at that time, so wasn't included in the comparison.)

In any event, the article makes for some interesting reading and might help with your decision.

The TSA is extremely well made and has proven well made optics with great consistency. I've not seen any reports of a poor one. As an aside, it uses the same glass configuration as the Astro-Physics 160EDF - BK7/FPL-53/BK7.

The SV105 does not have a large track record and has not been shown to have the same level of quality or consistency as the LZOS sourced Stellarvue lenses that help make SV reputation for optical excellence. It may be able to meet or exceed those levels, time will tell.

Philip

I would buy the SV, beacause it is a less expensive way to find out I want a 5 inch instead of a 4.