Differences in image quality between an esprit 120 and an toa 130

Equipment Refractors
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Is there a noticeable difference in image quality between a mid class refractor like the esprit 120 and a high class refractor like the toa 130
Multiple choice poll 26 votes
54% (14 votes)
46% (12 votes)
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Anderl avatar
Anderl avatar
Hey guys,

Takitis is real, thats for sure. The more time i spend in this hobby the more i want to image with a tak telescope, preferably with a toa 130. 

Thing is i already own a similarly sized telescope, an esprit 120. i am happy with that scope and still want to get my hands on the tak. 
Would i (or anybody else) be able to spot a difference between the images out of toa 130 and the esprit 120? If so, what are the differences we are looking at?
i know that i can and should look up pictures here on astrobin but i would guess that tak owners also spend more money on the rest of their equipment and processing. So it could be difficult to tell what differences are caused by the scopes. 

cs
Andi
Lynn K avatar
Lynn K avatar
There are a lot of variables other than the scope, that will determine the final result. If the Espirt 120 accomplished what you want, then it is GOOG ENOUGH.   The sky aways has the last word and Your ability  is the next.

I have a Tak FSQ106ED  and AP130GTX.  I have used less refined scopes. I know that however poorly an  the image turns out, it's not the scope's fault.  I have removed that variable from the equation.  I have been imaging for 18 yrs. I'm done with up grading.  Any larger or better can not be justified by my location. 

How good do you need.? IMO, yes, the Tak will be better, But will that difference justify the cost. There is a difference between value and quality.  Often,  the best value is not the best quality.  Again, given your skies and ability, will you see the difference.

Lynn K.
Phil Creed avatar
Phil Creed avatar
Dumb question, but what about going from a 120mm Esprit to a Tak TSA-120 instead?  Much lighter than the TOA-130.

Clear Skies,
Phil
Joe Linington avatar
Joe Linington avatar
I am far from an expert and only been doing this for a year but I was surprised after processing several images from a Tak FSQ106ED and EDX4. The older ED had quite severe issues in the corners, a lot of coma (QHY600 full frame sensor). I have verified this with a second rig located on another continent and with the owner of both rigs. It quickly cured me of Takitis. The EDX4 was considerably better but you aren’t getting a deal on one of those anytime soon. They are still very nice scopes and blazing fast, but not what I expect for that price tag. 

Definitely find some images with a similar setup here and maybe even see if you can find one remote to either rent or pay for some raw data. 

Admittedly, I haven’t touched any of the 3 scopes so have no experience with the quality, build or feel of those scopes.
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Nick Grundy avatar
Nick Grundy avatar
I definitely have Takitis. I ordered a TOA-130 yesterday and can’t wait. I’ve been imaging for the last year with a new askar 130phq, which is a very solid scope on its own. I just couldn’t resist the upgrade. I hope to hell those first subs come out and blow my mind. Otherwise, I’ll definitely throw tantrum for sure.

obviously, there’s more to imaging than just the quality of the scope. But….if I want to put all the work in, I want to maximize the potential outcome. And since I can’t up and move to Chile, I’ll do what I can. 

couldnt say if it’ll be better than the esprit though, no reference point
Engaging
Lynn K avatar
Lynn K avatar
There should be no difference between the optics of a FSQ106ED and the EDX4.  Only the focuser changed.  How well the FSQ does with a Full -frame can depend on the type of reducer used.  At native F5 there should not be any difference.  I have never imaged with a full frame, but all tilt must be eliminated.

It must be remembered that the weakest link will determine resolution. Along with top grade optics, there must also be top grade reducer, flattener, filters etc..
If one is going to cut corners on the rear end, don't bother upgrading the front end.  

Lynn K.
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Anderl avatar
Anderl avatar
Thank you guys for your answers. 
The opinion poll seems pretty equal for the moment.
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George Hatfield avatar
George Hatfield avatar
I have owned several refractors and without a doubt the TOA 130 with a field flattened was the best of them all.  In addition to the quality of the telescope it holds its value and it was easy to sell.  But I must admit, I'm sorry I sold it.  Worst refractor in my experience Teleview NP101is.
Andy 01 avatar
Andy 01 avatar
I have a TOA-130 (You can see my images here) - https://www.astrobin.com/users/Andys_Astropix/collections/3940/
IMO it's a far superior instrument than my former WO FLT 110 (see images here) - https://www.astrobin.com/users/Andys_Astropix/collections/3943/

The Tak yields amazing sharp, round stars across the entire frame. 
It also has better contrast and shows more fine details than the WO.

The old saying "You get what you pay for", certainly rings true.

Mind you, it was unforgiving of any eccentricity errors, which were present in the manufacture of the accompanying Feather touch focuser.
Once those were dialled out with some precision lathe work by a local master craftsman & scope 'maker, the Tak started to really sing! 

Honestly, it's chalk and cheese and anyone that says otherwise likely hasn't tried one for themselves! 

CS
Andy
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