Tak FS128 vs TOA130

Hello all Tak owners,

I raised a similar question under the topic of refractors, but only have received one opinion. Thanks Bruce. I currently am enjoying immensely my FS102. However, as is the case with everyone, I am moving up. I'm close to the next scope. Should it be the FS128 or go the distance and snag the TOA? The issue of weight means bigger mount, tripod etc. Will the money spent be worth the difference?

Thanks all,

Steve

Steve,

If you have not done so already, check out the Yahoo! group http://groups.yahoo.com/group/UncensoredTakGroup/

This topic has been covered extensively in that group. Search the archives for lengthy threads on this.

I have not looked through either one (I have an FS102 as well), so I have no experience to back up anything I say, but....

If I were in your shoes (you lucky dog! ), I'd go for the TOA - BUT I'm into imaging. This is based on what I've read in that group. So why do I have an FS102 instead of something more CCD-oriented? That's a very good question. Couldn't beat the price, actually! And yes, I see an APO triplet in my future 8)

HTH,
Eric

I've not had a chance to use a FS128, but I recently acquired a TOA-130S (2.7-inch focuser). The OTA's size does mandate a larger mount--I opted for a Losmandy G11. Planetary views are excellent, color correction and contrast are superb, focus "snaps in", and its 5-inch aperture works well for deep space objects. I've yet to try my Tele Vue Binoviewer on this new scope, but hope to do that this weekend. --Ron