55 replies to this topic

[Scott in NC]

My 120mm F/8.3 had way too much color for planets for my taste.

My 120mm f/8.3 achromat had a DPAC test that looked like this, so there was no competition between it and most of my smaller apos, at least for anything other than low-magnification deep sky viewing.

 

 

 

[Scott in NC]

Compare that with this test from my Star12 ED. A world of difference.
 

 

 

[Jeff Morgan]

I’d like to know just out of curiosity, but honestly it doesn’t really matter. Roland used the best glass available at the time, and 35 years later I’m really enjoying his craftsmanship.

 

The "best glasses available at the time" were discontinued for environmental reasons - not performance.

 

That opens up the possibility the replacement glasses might not be as good with respect to performance.

 

Maybe someone more into the glass catalogs and models (such as Paul) would have a more informed comment on that possibility?

[CHASLX200]

My 120mm f/8.3 achromat had a DPAC test that looked like this, so there was no competition between it and most of my smaller apos, at least for anything other than low-magnification deep sky viewing.

 

IMG_0600.jpeg
 

IMG_0601.jpeg

 

IMG_0602.jpeg

Mine was sharp but not anything as good as my freaky sharp C102.  Even the C102 had too much color on Jup. I can take so much color but once it gets to a point i can't deal with it.

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[RAKing]

I just can't see any decent comparison between a standard achromat and an ED doublet - especially an Astro-Physics refractor.  I don't care what glass he was using; Roland has been committed to producing the best scopes possible since he started making scopes.

 

I loved my achros and enjoyed all the nights I got to enjoy them in my younger days (I am a DSO person).  But as soon as I bought my first TV-102, it was "Light's Out" for the achros.  I played with a 6-inch Celestron Yard Cannon for a few months after that (because it was cheap!) - but I never really went back.

 

Scott, you have a beautiful piece of history in your hands.  I felt the same way when I had a couple of older Takahashi refractors.  And guess what?  We can still enjoy them!

 

Cheers,

 

Ron

[Scott99]

I just can't see any decent comparison between a standard achromat and an ED doublet

I've had lots of good views through the various f/6-f/8 achros - just not at higher powers.  They're role players, they do great at lower-mid power DSO viewing.  Nice small & light scope, no collimation, no CO, etc, they have their advantages.