I like the TeleVue refractors and eyepieces I've owned. The mechanical design and execution are exceptional. They are telescopes designed by amateur astronomers to be used by amateur astronomers.. I don't know of any once that machines a one piece sliding dew shield or for that matter, a diagonal with a body machined from a single piece of aluminum.
My first TeleVue refractor was my first quality refractor, a green Pronto. I sold it to Atilla Danko of Cleardarksky who sadly passed away recently.
My next scope was my NP-101, a non-IS model I bought used in 2010. It's been an excellent scope and has been all over the South west as well as having been all over my backyard. This is the NP-101 mounted on a StellarVue MG-2 mount, very sturdy with slow motion controls.
Since the beginning of Covid, I've had two Rangers, one Evergreen, one white. A unique design. Both ended up being gifts to friends.
Jon