Tasco Starguide 4

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Brand and Model:	Tasco Starguide 4
Price ($USD):	Ł599
Type:	Maksutov-Cassegrain
Attributes:	Go-To PEC
Aperture:	102mm (4")
f Ratio:	f/13
Focal Length:	1325mm
Finder:	"red dot&qu
Electric Power:	8 x AA
Mount:	alt-az
Tripod:	no
Weight (lbs):	lbs.
Dimensions (w/h/d):
Description:

Vote Highlights

Tasco Starguide 4

This is the Tasco version of the Celestron Nexstar 4. I originally chose it over the ETX90 because of the larger aperture and the hand controller is included in the price (Ł499 if you shop around in the UK).
The first one I took home (sealed box) had the central baffle stuck on off centre,also the clutch was sliping when slewing left to right and vice versa. I set it up anyway to test the optics - bright view of saturn (as bright as in my 4.5" reflector) but ghost images (possibly due to faulty baffle). Good heavy and solid mount. Lens/mirrors looked clean. Took it back to the shop - the other one in stock also had an off-centre baffle! So I am now the proud owner of an ETX90!
Rating-
Build - has to be 0 based on the two I encountered (neither were serviceable)
Optics - the quick view I had seemed OK so 7 (not fantastic but OK)
Value for money - if you can find one which works and has been assembled properly then this scope represents good value for money - 8 (theoretically).

Having used my ETX90 several times now, the Starguide 4 has the following plus points:
1. Red dot finder easier to use than the Meade.
2. Heavier - more stable.
3. Hand control simpler (some may prefer the Meade as it has more options)

but it looks like you get what you pay for - the ETX definately has sharper optics (just as bright) and a more "quality" look and feel. I will post a full review of my ETX soon.

Overall Rating: 5
Weight: 1 (Unreliable Vote)
Date: 12/13/2001 03:00:07 pm PDT
By: Anonymous (xxx.xxx.49.179)
Link to this vote: http://excelsis.com/1.0/displayvote.php?voteid=41426

Reply Replies: 0

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