Thanks for this review! I’ve had an AM5 for a year and a half, and added the pier. My Redcat 71 rig is fine on it. But so is my SCT 9.25” setup,m. At first I put it in an AVX tripod but later even put it on the TC40 tripod, making sure the legs were spread out and with a weight in the base bag just for peace of mind. But I experienced no problems with it and the guiding is consistently decent. I wouldn’t put anything heavier than my 9.25” rig on it though, just out of caution. But it made me a loyal fan of strainwave gear mounts!
Thanks for checking out the video and thank you for your info regarding using a relatively heavy scope with the AM5 and carbon fibre tripod. Good to know it can handle the weight without issues. I'm definitely too nervous to try it with my SCT but I've pinned your comment to the top of the comments section as I think it is very useful info for anyone considering getting an AM5 to use with a descent sized scope. Clear skies.
Your short fat SCT 👍will be less prone to vibration than my long thin refractor, so I figure that's part of us having reached slightly different conculsions. I started with the TC40 and did get some OK results with it, but I never enjoyed using it - I'd paid too much to put up with the niggles.
Very good review Logan, thanks! I run my AM5 with an Orion EON 130ED APO which is right on the (13kg) limit for use without the counterweight. I spent a lot of time getting it right. My conclusion confirms your instinct that its inadvisable to try to use a carbon fiber tripod if you have any significant load. I simply bought some 3/8" rod and knobs from Amazon and permanently attached the PE200 to my old metal EQ6 tripod. The extra low down weight and the longer and extendable legs (wide stance) makes it completely reliable, and means you don't need to carry stones or dumbells around, or counterweights. That weight saving more than compensates for a slightly heavier tripod. Actually my all-up transport weight (in a camping cart) dropped from 70kg with the EQ6 mount, to 35kg in the AM5 configuration. The metal flexure, and the extra inertial tripod mass seems to damp out nasty vibrations I experienced when this payload was perched on a TC40 carbon tripod. Hand focus and PA were a real drag with that vibe, and a slight breeze or walking nearby was enough to ruin a sub.The wide stance and the lower center of mass of my EQ6 tripod, make it completely safe from toppling (although its a nervy time while you build that confidence). I have left the counterweight off because I don't rate the anchor point design on the AM5 highly, and the c/w assembly is one possible cause that could have set up that harmonic ringing buzz. I did put upgraded feet on the TC40, and used a hammock weight, and switched from vixen to a losmandy dovetail, and tried the counterweight, all to no great advantage. The EQ6 tripod was the fix. They are cheaper too and its trivial to adapt. My TC40 got a new lease of life with a PE160, an AM3, an FF80+reducer, and ASI2600DUO as my 'grab and go'. Like your Redcat rig, this can be carried outside fully assembled, and rushed inside if need be.
Thanks very much for that info. You make a very good point about vibrations/breeze etc using a heavy rig on something like the AM5 and while it probably can handle a bigger rig without the counterweight, there could be a significant rate of sub loss. Sounds like a great solution to mount the AM5 on the EQ6 tripod, not only for the extra stability but also the peace of mind (I've already had a light tripod with a rig on it crash to the ground as one of the leg extension clamps had worked it's way loose so I'm a case of once bitten, 10x as shy). If I ever put a heavier rig on my AM5, I think I would go down the same route as you and get something a bit more solid and stable for it to sit on (in which case I think I might just HAVE to get an AM3 for my Redcat 😅). CS
Thanks Logan! I’m using an Askar 80 PHQ, with the AM5, mounted on iOptron Tri-Pier via the ZWO pier extension. I’ve found that my guiding improved with the addition of a 4kg counter weight. I’ve had it for 6 months and am blown away by its guiding performance….. generally around O.5
Thanks Russell, I will keep that in mind that the addition of the counter weight has improved stability and guiding with a bigger scope on the mount, especially if I put my Askar rig on the mount. Clear skies..
I have the AM3 with the PE200 and a similar tripod, I’ve used a vintage C8 with Hyperstar and An Askar 103APO with no issues. I just put my battery in the hammock and it’s very stable even in decent winds
Thanks for checking out the video Wes. That's great to hear that even the smaller AM3 can handle a bit of extra weight comfortably. I'm very tempted to sell my CEM60 and replace it with another AM5 or an AM3, if for nothing else but to save my back! Clear skies.
I added a female 3/8" threaded eye on the very bottom of the long threaded mounting rod. I use a velcro strap between the eye and the handle of my 1000W power bank for added stability.
Now that's a clever idea. These tripods are great but they do need that extra downward force to keep them steady. Thanks for sharing that idea. Clear skies.
I use it with an Askar 65PHQ without the pier extension. Just have to make sure everything is forward as much as possible and I use an single filter draw so less clutter at the back. The weight is a must - I've used my camping peg bag (including a heavy hammer) in the past, but I use a medicine ball now :-)
Ah yes, a medicine ball would be perfect. I've noticed it's always the filterwheel that hits tripod or tri-pier legs so I can see how you can get away without the pier extension using a filter drawer. Clear skies
Haha thanks, yes the weather does indeed suck at present. Although to be fair..... it's not that great in Spain at present also (just my luck 😂). Clear skies
Great review Logan! I’ve had my AM5 about the same time and also bought an Askar 120 at Christmas to add to my Askar 65phq The 120 and EAF/ASI air/533mc pro weigh in around 8.8kgs on the mount and it happily handles this with no counterweight I get .3 to .5 guiding no problem. Cheers Simon
Thanks Simon. Great choice getting another Askar to keep the 65PHQ company (they are great scopes). And I'm happy to hear it handles the 8.8kg rig with no issues as I am keen to also put my 65PHQ on the AM5 with it's bigger filterwheel and heavier ASI2600mm. Clear skies.
Nice review Logan, I’ve heard good things about the AM5, glad you’ve got a good one there! The portability aspect is an important feature and useful if those pesky clouds come in! Agreed on the ASIAIR pro wifi 🤣 The plus is better! Very impressed with the 15 min subs! The most I dare go to is 10! Luke has just done a video , 1 min or ten min subs! And to be honest, there’s not much difference lol, think I’ll reduce mine down to 3, less trails , and lately, wind! Weather has been crap here! Oooh, 40hr projects! Looking forward to those😀 Hope you’re getting some clear skies mate👍
Thanks Simon. I agree shorter subs on many targets are just as good as longer subs - for example, imaging our Carina nebula, you can get a ton of detail with a 10 second sub no problem at all. Where I am doing 10min, 15min or 10 min subs are on targets that are extremely faint and are requiring 20 to 40 hours just to show up. Of course the downside is those long exposures can easily be ruined by satellites, clouds etc and with more and more starlink satellites going up, probably the shorter exposures the better. Clear skies.
Really like the portability of it Logan being able to pick the whole thing up that easy. Great for small to mid sized setups. Ye I've seen the C925 images, Id be too scared to put mine on that like you say unless it was on a really stable pier.
I guess having had my SkyWatcher AZ-Gti mount with Samyang 135mm lens fall over on a tripod (mostly my fault for not checking the legs but partly because the clamping system had slowly gotten lose over time), I'm now a nervous nelly about putting a heavy scope on a tripod.... but it seems that others are doing it ok. CS
It is compatible with the HEQ5 tripod, but you have to use an adapter to put it on an EQ6 tripod. For the EQ6 tripod, I use the Geoptik HEQ5 adapter. It's beefy and I just prefer it over the carbon fiber tripods. I added a threaded rod extension under the tripod and put ballast weights on it. Very stable!
It's great that they have adapters allowing us to use with other tripods that we may already have or are a bit more stable than the light carbon fibre one. CS
I'm considering getting an SWG mount for my William Optics 81GT so I can take it to a dark site or even just carry it around my back yard or as you say into the house should it suddenly start raining ( which, living in the UK is nothing unusual ). The AM 5 is one I have looked at but in the UK it is a bit out of my price range so I was thinking of the AM3, however I believe Sky Watcher are about to enter the market with their own versions of the AM3 and 5 so I might hang fire and see what they have to offer. I have had good experiences with their EQ6-R Pro, original Star Adventurer and S.A. GTi mounts which I am currently using. That was a good review by the way. Thank you.
Thanks Kevin. Yes I saw that SkyWatcher has shown off the strainwave mounts at NEAF which I hope will continue to bring more competition to the market and help bring the price of these mounts down as they are a bit pricey at present ( I too wondered if I should go for the cheaper AM3 because of cost). Will be interesting to see how SkyWatcher price their offerings. Clear skies.
Thanks Jason. It's certainly nice to not have to take apart a setup to move it in an out of the house at night. I'm also really enjoying the fact that I can squeeze it into the corner of my obsy and have the two setups going at the same time in the comfort of the obsy. And yes you definitely need one 🤣. CS
@@LogansAstro I’m actually considering a good Harmonic drive for my Obsy, I see Ioptron do one that will take the same 31kg as my CEM70 and with no CW…I like the idea of being able to just swap rigs on and off the mount with no worries of re balancing each time, as that can be a real pain…
Nice review mate always fancied a strainwave mount for portability but limited funds doesn't help although there's a guy I'm following built one for a little over $500 which was an interesting watch. Like you say quality can be a bit of a lottery when you buy anyone's mount whether it be ZWO, Skywatcher, Ioptron etc. I bought a new NEQ6 years ago & still had to tinker with it to get it to work well yet my other halfs HEQ5 which isn't belt modded has always worked impeccably as the guiding on that is insanely good being 0.1 or less when seeing is good far better than my AZ EQ6 GT. Clear skies mate
Thanks Tich. I'm just hoping I didn't say too soon about my AM5 being a good one although 6 months is a reasonable time I think (🤞and toes crossed). Unfortunately these strainwave are not cheap but here is hoping that the price comes down with more and more appearing on the market. Clear skies
I've had mine for 6 months now and I love it! Living at my longitude (at 59°) I need a counter weight even with a RedCat on, it simply points too high up in the sky so the mount gets very front heavy and wants to tip backwards all the time :(
Oh wow, I hadn't thought about that being a potential issue with that longitude but i can see what you mean. Fortunately I'm at -36 so it's not an issue but something for people to think about depending on their longitude. Clear skies.
Great honest review Logan. I looked at that mount but couldnt justify the outlay. Gone the poor mans route and got a skywatcher star adventurer gti. Having to carry out all the the gear and setup can be a bit burdensome with this British weather for sure. That looks an awsome skyline you got there logan atop that roof. Shhh dont tell my old woman im looking at the phq for my 400mm upgrade 😅. Clear skies bud.
Thanks very much Rob. Yes, unfortunately they are not the cheapest item and I humm'd and haaa'd about getting it for a while, or going for the cheaper AM3. Now that the pain of cost is fading, I'm really enjoying the ease of setup with this rig and very pleased with the guiding. I now must go and catch up on your latest video ( I've been a bit slack recently with TH-cam). Clear skies.
@@LogansAstro hope no offense mate. Your getting fantastic results and love the images. Keep them videos going. Us norherners cant image whats down south so we reley on you. Clear skies buddy
I got mine about a month ago. Turns out the 85mm plate that fits in the pier, is exactly the size of an old, super heavy duty Gitzo tripod I'm using. I put the Askar 120 APO on it (no CW). I was cautious at first. Believe me, it won't fall with a 500W Jackery in the hammock. Amazed at how easily it moves that huge Refractor. On a side note, how do you like the AKRacing desk chair, which model?
Thanks for checking out the video Mike. Good to hear it handles the Askar 120 without the cw. Yes I can imaging that the 500w Jackery would keep things pretty well grounded. The AKRacing chair has been great - its quite a few years old now and unfortunately the 'pleather' upholstery is starting to flake off so it might be time for a new one. Not sure which model it is as I am away from home just at present.
Hey Logan, Jim from Dunners, I was wondering if you could tell me where you sourced your AM5 from, and if you only need one power cord going to the AM5 main unit and then use a cable to power your ASI P(pro, mini or plus) box from the main unit, or do you use two power cords coming from your mains or something similar? I'm thinking of using an AM5 for my WO Z61 and my current EQ6 Pro for an eventually longer scope such as an Askar 120 or 130mm. Good video btw about how you find your AM5, greatly appreciate it! Looking for more clear skies, they seem to have vanished lately. Cheers
Thanks Jim. I am still really loving my AM5. I got mine while I was in Oz on holiday (bought from Testar). I have a single 12v5amp power supply going into the AM5 and then a power cord going from the AM5 to the ASIAir and everything runs smoothly. However, I am running the ASI533mmPro on the back and not the 2600 so I'm not sure if that might make a difference.
@@LogansAstro Cheers Logan, I will be also be using a 533MC with my WO Z61. The mount is expensive, but the EQ6 is getting heavier hauling it in and out, so I'm finding. It should also be a one off purchase P(fingers crossed). After the late summer and autumn here where it was cloudy for months, I decided I would get a second rig up and runinng to at least make best use of the infrequent clear skies near the coast. Thanks for coming back to me and clear skies up there for you.
Hi Logan, Great review. My question: Will this mount work without using the ASIAIR? In other words, will it work with EQMOD? Looks like a great mount and I am looking for a new one for my Orion ED80 scope. CS
Thanks Pat. I'm not actually sure if it works with other systems. I have seen discussions between ZWO tech support and people using the ASCOM driver and using it in NINA which sounds like it works ok, at least with NINA. But to be safe, it would probably a good idea to send a quick question to ZWO to check on compatibility. CS
So I have a question. You need a counterweight for big heavy scopes but nowhere can I find how far down the shaft to put it in order to balance it. There is no clutch so how do you balance it. I am guessing you would put the 5 pound weight all the way to the bottom but I’m only guessing.
Good question and I don't know the answer to that one. I know ZWO recommends no more than a 5kg counterweight. As the bar for the AM5 is only 23cm long, I guess the end of the bar would be the place to put it but maybe someone (not as nervous as me) who is using a heavier scope might be able to answer this question ( see comment by @MyDirtyRod who is using it with a 12kg setup).
If you know the weight of your imaging train, and can measure the distance to the axis of rotation, you can "match" that weight x distance and calculate the needed weight and distance down the shaft of the counterweight. You do not need to be exact, but i do think it makes sense to offset the weight of the imaging train to reduce the possibility of the mount tipping over, as well as easing the strain to guide properly.
@@johnrsims43 thanks for the info. I have looked for this info and you are the first (and only) person to explain it. I looked on the asizwo site for details but I found nothing. Again, thanks.
Mine went wrong after about 8 hours of use. No longer goes home- upside down instead. Apparently needs new encoder board. Got to pay for it to sent off if I want it fixed.
Oh no, that sounds bad. Why on earth should you have to pay to get it fixed? Who did you buy it from - ZWO or a re-seller? (when my ASI1600mmPro went on the fritz, First Light Optics who I bought it from organised a courier for shipping etc at no cost to me).
@@LogansAstrogot it from Testar. They are not willing to pay for postage. I am in 2 minds what to do. I can move it into position by eye at start and end of night so it still works but it's a bit of a pain.
Would be great to lift the whole rig at once. Not a comment about the Am5 but would a hamock and weight help Heq5 guide better? My rms is usually around 1" which could be better.
Definitely a joy to be able to carry the rig in an out easily. I'm not very familiar with the Heq5 structurally so not sure whether the hammock would help or not. The carbon fibre tripods are very light and I've found move easily in even a slight breeze and the hammock with a weight really helped in my situation.
Yes, lifting the entire rig rather than having to break it down first is a big advantage. Something I’ve noticed is that the rig is more stable when I lift and carry it if I keep the 10lb dumbbell I used for stability in the hammock. I’ve tried it without the dumbbell, and despite it being 10lbs lighter, it is just more stable with the dumbbell in the hammock and as a result easier to carry despite being heavier. I just don’t have to worry nearly as much about keeping the rig vertical as I move it from my house to my deck and then back in when I’m through.
What's the argument for a pier being more stable than a tripod? Especially if the pier points of contact with the ground are in the same positions as the tripod.
The carbon tripod I have (which as far as I can tell is very similar to the ZWO one) is nowhere near as stable as the tri-pier I have for my CEM60 - structurally and weight-wise, they are quite different. These carbon fibre tripods are very light. Also a lot of tripods rely on a twisting mechanism to secure the leg extended and if you don't get that quite right, down will go the telescope (I can speak from experience there). I'm sure some people do put a heavy setup on these tripods but I just wouldn't.
Nice review. I use it with a Redcat71 and also a 26lbs 115mm refractor on the CF tripod. Guides as well as my RC71 with the but the CW is a must when the 115 is way off to the side. Definitely wish the mount power was elsewhere.
@@MrDirtyRod Thanks. Good to hear you are finding the tripod nice and stable with a 26lb (12kg) rig on it and useful info for anyone wanting to use a heavier rig on the mount with the carbon fiber tripod. Clear skies.
I'm considering getting an SWG mount for my William Optics 81GT so I can take it to a dark site or even just carry it around my back yard or as you say into the house should it suddenly start raining ( which, living in the UK is nothing unusual ). The AM 5 is one I have looked at but in the UK it is a bit out of my price range so I was thinking of the AM3, however I believe Sky Watcher are about to enter the market with their own versions of the AM3 and 5 so I might hang fire and see what they have to offer. I have had good experiences with their EQ6-R Pro, original Star Adventurer and S.A. GTi mounts which I am currently using. That was a good review by the way. Thank you.
@@user-lt9py2pu6u thanks very much. Yes I've seen a couple of images of the SkyWatcher's strainwave mounts and they look pretty cool. Like you, I hope they price them competitively to help bring the cost of these mounts down as strainwaves are indeed quite pricey at present.Clear skies
Hmm the counterweight IS to prevent it from falling over. It is not needed for balancing on a strainwave mount. If you have the counterweight on it and a heavy battery hanging in the tripod "bag", it will certainly not fall over even with a 25kg load.
I would have thought that being balanced in RA to some degree would be necessary for not falling over. Obviously not balancing it like you would a standard equatorial mount but at least close hence the point of the counterweight.
@@LogansAstro I agree. But the weight is solely there to make it stable. There are no clutches on these mounts so its only a guess where to put the counterweight.
Three ground screw anchors and ratchet straps work well too prevent tipping of a tripod. I did that when setting up my telescope to photograph the solar eclipse on April 8th. I was worried about wind or people tipping it over. Captured some good photos: th-cam.com/video/4BJGtOuvqj0/w-d-xo.htmlsi=8oQwGlSXOrxdjseF
![[Live] : ONE 168 วันนี้!! "โจนาธาน vs ซุปเปอร์เล็ก"](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/0jIN65KgJsI/mqdefault.jpg)
Thanks for this review! I’ve had an AM5 for a year and a half, and added the pier. My Redcat 71 rig is fine on it. But so is my SCT 9.25” setup,m. At first I put it in an AVX tripod but later even put it on the TC40 tripod, making sure the legs were spread out and with a weight in the base bag just for peace of mind. But I experienced no problems with it and the guiding is consistently decent. I wouldn’t put anything heavier than my 9.25” rig on it though, just out of caution. But it made me a loyal fan of strainwave gear mounts!
Thanks for checking out the video and thank you for your info regarding using a relatively heavy scope with the AM5 and carbon fibre tripod. Good to know it can handle the weight without issues. I'm definitely too nervous to try it with my SCT but I've pinned your comment to the top of the comments section as I think it is very useful info for anyone considering getting an AM5 to use with a descent sized scope. Clear skies.
Your short fat SCT 👍will be less prone to vibration than my long thin refractor, so I figure that's part of us having reached slightly different conculsions. I started with the TC40 and did get some OK results with it, but I never enjoyed using it - I'd paid too much to put up with the niggles.
Very good review Logan, thanks! I run my AM5 with an Orion EON 130ED APO which is right on the (13kg) limit for use without the counterweight. I spent a lot of time getting it right. My conclusion confirms your instinct that its inadvisable to try to use a carbon fiber tripod if you have any significant load. I simply bought some 3/8" rod and knobs from Amazon and permanently attached the PE200 to my old metal EQ6 tripod. The extra low down weight and the longer and extendable legs (wide stance) makes it completely reliable, and means you don't need to carry stones or dumbells around, or counterweights. That weight saving more than compensates for a slightly heavier tripod. Actually my all-up transport weight (in a camping cart) dropped from 70kg with the EQ6 mount, to 35kg in the AM5 configuration.
The metal flexure, and the extra inertial tripod mass seems to damp out nasty vibrations I experienced when this payload was perched on a TC40 carbon tripod. Hand focus and PA were a real drag with that vibe, and a slight breeze or walking nearby was enough to ruin a sub.The wide stance and the lower center of mass of my EQ6 tripod, make it completely safe from toppling (although its a nervy time while you build that confidence). I have left the counterweight off because I don't rate the anchor point design on the AM5 highly, and the c/w assembly is one possible cause that could have set up that harmonic ringing buzz. I did put upgraded feet on the TC40, and used a hammock weight, and switched from vixen to a losmandy dovetail, and tried the counterweight, all to no great advantage. The EQ6 tripod was the fix. They are cheaper too and its trivial to adapt.
My TC40 got a new lease of life with a PE160, an AM3, an FF80+reducer, and ASI2600DUO as my 'grab and go'. Like your Redcat rig, this can be carried outside fully assembled, and rushed inside if need be.
Thanks very much for that info. You make a very good point about vibrations/breeze etc using a heavy rig on something like the AM5 and while it probably can handle a bigger rig without the counterweight, there could be a significant rate of sub loss. Sounds like a great solution to mount the AM5 on the EQ6 tripod, not only for the extra stability but also the peace of mind (I've already had a light tripod with a rig on it crash to the ground as one of the leg extension clamps had worked it's way loose so I'm a case of once bitten, 10x as shy). If I ever put a heavier rig on my AM5, I think I would go down the same route as you and get something a bit more solid and stable for it to sit on (in which case I think I might just HAVE to get an AM3 for my Redcat 😅). CS
The part where Cocoa is typing on the computer is funny dad.
Yep she is is a very clever cat - does all my image processing.🤣
Thanks Logan! I’m using an Askar 80 PHQ, with the AM5, mounted on iOptron Tri-Pier via the ZWO pier extension. I’ve found that my guiding improved with the addition of a 4kg counter weight. I’ve had it for 6 months and am blown away by its guiding performance….. generally around O.5
Thanks Russell, I will keep that in mind that the addition of the counter weight has improved stability and guiding with a bigger scope on the mount, especially if I put my Askar rig on the mount. Clear skies..
I have the AM3 with the PE200 and a similar tripod, I’ve used a vintage C8 with Hyperstar and An Askar 103APO with no issues. I just put my battery in the hammock and it’s very stable even in decent winds
Thanks for checking out the video Wes. That's great to hear that even the smaller AM3 can handle a bit of extra weight comfortably. I'm very tempted to sell my CEM60 and replace it with another AM5 or an AM3, if for nothing else but to save my back! Clear skies.
I added a female 3/8" threaded eye on the very bottom of the long threaded mounting rod. I use a velcro strap between the eye and the handle of my 1000W power bank for added stability.
Now that's a clever idea. These tripods are great but they do need that extra downward force to keep them steady. Thanks for sharing that idea. Clear skies.
I use it with an Askar 65PHQ without the pier extension. Just have to make sure everything is forward as much as possible and I use an single filter draw so less clutter at the back. The weight is a must - I've used my camping peg bag (including a heavy hammer) in the past, but I use a medicine ball now :-)
Ah yes, a medicine ball would be perfect. I've noticed it's always the filterwheel that hits tripod or tri-pier legs so I can see how you can get away without the pier extension using a filter drawer. Clear skies
Awesome review, thanks mate and clear skies to you too, which in Auckland as you know sucks right now. Looking forward to the galaxy image.
Haha thanks, yes the weather does indeed suck at present. Although to be fair..... it's not that great in Spain at present also (just my luck 😂). Clear skies
Great review Logan!
I’ve had my AM5 about the same time and also bought an Askar 120 at Christmas to add to my Askar 65phq
The 120 and EAF/ASI air/533mc pro weigh in around 8.8kgs on the mount and it happily handles this with no counterweight
I get .3 to .5 guiding no problem.
Cheers
Simon
Thanks Simon. Great choice getting another Askar to keep the 65PHQ company (they are great scopes). And I'm happy to hear it handles the 8.8kg rig with no issues as I am keen to also put my 65PHQ on the AM5 with it's bigger filterwheel and heavier ASI2600mm. Clear skies.
@@LogansAstro I really love the Askar scopes, yes I’m hoping to go down the filterwheel 2600 road as soon as I have the funds 🤣🌌🔭
Nice review Logan, I’ve heard good things about the AM5, glad you’ve got a good one there! The portability aspect is an important feature and useful if those pesky clouds come in! Agreed on the ASIAIR pro wifi 🤣 The plus is better! Very impressed with the 15 min subs! The most I dare go to is 10! Luke has just done a video , 1 min or ten min subs! And to be honest, there’s not much difference lol, think I’ll reduce mine down to 3, less trails , and lately, wind! Weather has been crap here! Oooh, 40hr projects! Looking forward to those😀 Hope you’re getting some clear skies mate👍
Thanks Simon. I agree shorter subs on many targets are just as good as longer subs - for example, imaging our Carina nebula, you can get a ton of detail with a 10 second sub no problem at all. Where I am doing 10min, 15min or 10 min subs are on targets that are extremely faint and are requiring 20 to 40 hours just to show up. Of course the downside is those long exposures can easily be ruined by satellites, clouds etc and with more and more starlink satellites going up, probably the shorter exposures the better. Clear skies.
Really like the portability of it Logan being able to pick the whole thing up that easy. Great for small to mid sized setups. Ye I've seen the C925 images, Id be too scared to put mine on that like you say unless it was on a really stable pier.
I guess having had my SkyWatcher AZ-Gti mount with Samyang 135mm lens fall over on a tripod (mostly my fault for not checking the legs but partly because the clamping system had slowly gotten lose over time), I'm now a nervous nelly about putting a heavy scope on a tripod.... but it seems that others are doing it ok. CS
It is compatible with the HEQ5 tripod, but you have to use an adapter to put it on an EQ6 tripod. For the EQ6 tripod, I use the Geoptik HEQ5 adapter. It's beefy and I just prefer it over the carbon fiber tripods. I added a threaded rod extension under the tripod and put ballast weights on it. Very stable!
It's great that they have adapters allowing us to use with other tripods that we may already have or are a bit more stable than the light carbon fibre one. CS
Great review Logan!, Thanks for sharing. Clear Skies!!
Thanks very much Luke. Clear skies.
I'm considering getting an SWG mount for my William Optics 81GT so I can take it to a dark site or even just carry it around my back yard or as you say into the house should it suddenly start raining ( which, living in the UK is nothing unusual ). The AM 5 is one I have looked at but in the UK it is a bit out of my price range so I was thinking of the AM3, however I believe Sky Watcher are about to enter the market with their own versions of the AM3 and 5 so I might hang fire and see what they have to offer. I have had good experiences with their EQ6-R Pro, original Star Adventurer and S.A. GTi mounts which I am currently using. That was a good review by the way. Thank you.
Thanks Kevin. Yes I saw that SkyWatcher has shown off the strainwave mounts at NEAF which I hope will continue to bring more competition to the market and help bring the price of these mounts down as they are a bit pricey at present ( I too wondered if I should go for the cheaper AM3 because of cost). Will be interesting to see how SkyWatcher price their offerings. Clear skies.
Great review Logan! Very portable mount. I want I mean need one!! CS
Thanks Jason. It's certainly nice to not have to take apart a setup to move it in an out of the house at night. I'm also really enjoying the fact that I can squeeze it into the corner of my obsy and have the two setups going at the same time in the comfort of the obsy. And yes you definitely need one 🤣. CS
Great video Logan, I would love one of these mounts for a portable rig myself, or maybe just the AM3, something for the future I think…clear skies…👍🏻
Thanks Stewart. I think the AM3 is also a great choice and I've heard some say they guide even a bit better than the AM5.
@@LogansAstro I’m actually considering a good Harmonic drive for my Obsy, I see Ioptron do one that will take the same 31kg as my CEM70 and with no CW…I like the idea of being able to just swap rigs on and off the mount with no worries of re balancing each time, as that can be a real pain…
Nice review mate always fancied a strainwave mount for portability but limited funds doesn't help although there's a guy I'm following built one for a little over $500 which was an interesting watch. Like you say quality can be a bit of a lottery when you buy anyone's mount whether it be ZWO, Skywatcher, Ioptron etc. I bought a new NEQ6 years ago & still had to tinker with it to get it to work well yet my other halfs HEQ5 which isn't belt modded has always worked impeccably as the guiding on that is insanely good being 0.1 or less when seeing is good far better than my AZ EQ6 GT.
Clear skies mate
Thanks Tich. I'm just hoping I didn't say too soon about my AM5 being a good one although 6 months is a reasonable time I think (🤞and toes crossed). Unfortunately these strainwave are not cheap but here is hoping that the price comes down with more and more appearing on the market. Clear skies
I've had mine for 6 months now and I love it! Living at my longitude (at 59°) I need a counter weight even with a RedCat on, it simply points too high up in the sky so the mount gets very front heavy and wants to tip backwards all the time :(
Oh wow, I hadn't thought about that being a potential issue with that longitude but i can see what you mean. Fortunately I'm at -36 so it's not an issue but something for people to think about depending on their longitude. Clear skies.
Great honest review Logan. I looked at that mount but couldnt justify the outlay. Gone the poor mans route and got a skywatcher star adventurer gti. Having to carry out all the the gear and setup can be a bit burdensome with this British weather for sure. That looks an awsome skyline you got there logan atop that roof. Shhh dont tell my old woman im looking at the phq for my 400mm upgrade 😅. Clear skies bud.
Thanks very much Rob. Yes, unfortunately they are not the cheapest item and I humm'd and haaa'd about getting it for a while, or going for the cheaper AM3. Now that the pain of cost is fading, I'm really enjoying the ease of setup with this rig and very pleased with the guiding. I now must go and catch up on your latest video ( I've been a bit slack recently with TH-cam). Clear skies.
@@LogansAstro hope no offense mate. Your getting fantastic results and love the images. Keep them videos going. Us norherners cant image whats down south so we reley on you. Clear skies buddy
@@sevenskiesastro No offense taken at all. Oh and I think you should definitely (and secretly) get that PHQ - they are awesome scopes.
Keep it under your hat though 😊. Clear skies bud
I got mine about a month ago. Turns out the 85mm plate that fits in the pier, is exactly the size of an old, super heavy duty Gitzo tripod I'm using. I put the Askar 120 APO on it (no CW). I was cautious at first. Believe me, it won't fall with a 500W Jackery in the hammock. Amazed at how easily it moves that huge Refractor.
On a side note, how do you like the AKRacing desk chair, which model?
Thanks for checking out the video Mike. Good to hear it handles the Askar 120 without the cw. Yes I can imaging that the 500w Jackery would keep things pretty well grounded. The AKRacing chair has been great - its quite a few years old now and unfortunately the 'pleather' upholstery is starting to flake off so it might be time for a new one. Not sure which model it is as I am away from home just at present.
Hey Logan, Jim from Dunners, I was wondering if you could tell me where you sourced your AM5 from, and if you only need one power cord going to the AM5 main unit and then use a cable to power your ASI P(pro, mini or plus) box from the main unit, or do you use two power cords coming from your mains or something similar? I'm thinking of using an AM5 for my WO Z61 and my current EQ6 Pro for an eventually longer scope such as an Askar 120 or 130mm. Good video btw about how you find your AM5, greatly appreciate it! Looking for more clear skies, they seem to have vanished lately. Cheers
Thanks Jim. I am still really loving my AM5. I got mine while I was in Oz on holiday (bought from Testar). I have a single 12v5amp power supply going into the AM5 and then a power cord going from the AM5 to the ASIAir and everything runs smoothly. However, I am running the ASI533mmPro on the back and not the 2600 so I'm not sure if that might make a difference.
@@LogansAstro Cheers Logan, I will be also be using a 533MC with my WO Z61. The mount is expensive, but the EQ6 is getting heavier hauling it in and out, so I'm finding. It should also be a one off purchase P(fingers crossed). After the late summer and autumn here where it was cloudy for months, I decided I would get a second rig up and runinng to at least make best use of the infrequent clear skies near the coast. Thanks for coming back to me and clear skies up there for you.
Hi Logan,
Great review. My question: Will this mount work without using the ASIAIR? In other words, will it work with EQMOD? Looks like a great mount and I am looking for a new one for my Orion ED80 scope.
CS
Thanks Pat. I'm not actually sure if it works with other systems. I have seen discussions between ZWO tech support and people using the ASCOM driver and using it in NINA which sounds like it works ok, at least with NINA. But to be safe, it would probably a good idea to send a quick question to ZWO to check on compatibility. CS
So I have a question. You need a counterweight for big heavy scopes but nowhere can I find how far down the shaft to put it in order to balance it. There is no clutch so how do you balance it. I am guessing you would put the 5 pound weight all the way to the bottom but I’m only guessing.
Good question and I don't know the answer to that one. I know ZWO recommends no more than a 5kg counterweight. As the bar for the AM5 is only 23cm long, I guess the end of the bar would be the place to put it but maybe someone (not as nervous as me) who is using a heavier scope might be able to answer this question ( see comment by @MyDirtyRod who is using it with a 12kg setup).
I have a 4kg weight on the end of the bar… works well, doesn’t have to be perfectly balanced.
If you know the weight of your imaging train, and can measure the distance to the axis of rotation, you can "match" that weight x distance and calculate the needed weight and distance down the shaft of the counterweight. You do not need to be exact, but i do think it makes sense to offset the weight of the imaging train to reduce the possibility of the mount tipping over, as well as easing the strain to guide properly.
@@johnrsims43 thanks for the info. I have looked for this info and you are the first (and only) person to explain it. I looked on the asizwo site for details but I found nothing. Again, thanks.
Mine went wrong after about 8 hours of use. No longer goes home- upside down instead. Apparently needs new encoder board. Got to pay for it to sent off if I want it fixed.
Oh no, that sounds bad. Why on earth should you have to pay to get it fixed? Who did you buy it from - ZWO or a re-seller? (when my ASI1600mmPro went on the fritz, First Light Optics who I bought it from organised a courier for shipping etc at no cost to me).
@@LogansAstrogot it from Testar. They are not willing to pay for postage. I am in 2 minds what to do. I can move it into position by eye at start and end of night so it still works but it's a bit of a pain.
🔭🙌🏼❤️
Would be great to lift the whole rig at once. Not a comment about the Am5 but would a hamock and weight help Heq5 guide better? My rms is usually around 1" which could be better.
Definitely a joy to be able to carry the rig in an out easily. I'm not very familiar with the Heq5 structurally so not sure whether the hammock would help or not. The carbon fibre tripods are very light and I've found move easily in even a slight breeze and the hammock with a weight really helped in my situation.
Yes, lifting the entire rig rather than having to break it down first is a big advantage. Something I’ve noticed is that the rig is more stable when I lift and carry it if I keep the 10lb dumbbell I used for stability in the hammock. I’ve tried it without the dumbbell, and despite it being 10lbs lighter, it is just more stable with the dumbbell in the hammock and as a result easier to carry despite being heavier. I just don’t have to worry nearly as much about keeping the rig vertical as I move it from my house to my deck and then back in when I’m through.
Nice video. Where in Spain do you have your rig ?
It's in Southern Spain at Pixel Skies.
What's the argument for a pier being more stable than a tripod? Especially if the pier points of contact with the ground are in the same positions as the tripod.
The carbon tripod I have (which as far as I can tell is very similar to the ZWO one) is nowhere near as stable as the tri-pier I have for my CEM60 - structurally and weight-wise, they are quite different. These carbon fibre tripods are very light. Also a lot of tripods rely on a twisting mechanism to secure the leg extended and if you don't get that quite right, down will go the telescope (I can speak from experience there). I'm sure some people do put a heavy setup on these tripods but I just wouldn't.
Nice review. I use it with a Redcat71 and also a 26lbs 115mm refractor on the CF tripod. Guides as well as my RC71 with the but the CW is a must when the 115 is way off to the side. Definitely wish the mount power was elsewhere.
@@MrDirtyRod Thanks. Good to hear you are finding the tripod nice and stable with a 26lb (12kg) rig on it and useful info for anyone wanting to use a heavier rig on the mount with the carbon fiber tripod. Clear skies.
I'm considering getting an SWG mount for my William Optics 81GT so I can take it to a dark site or even just carry it around my back yard or as you say into the house should it suddenly start raining ( which, living in the UK is nothing unusual ). The AM 5 is one I have looked at but in the UK it is a bit out of my price range so I was thinking of the AM3, however I believe Sky Watcher are about to enter the market with their own versions of the AM3 and 5 so I might hang fire and see what they have to offer. I have had good experiences with their EQ6-R Pro, original Star Adventurer and S.A. GTi mounts which I am currently using. That was a good review by the way. Thank you.
@@user-lt9py2pu6u thanks very much. Yes I've seen a couple of images of the SkyWatcher's strainwave mounts and they look pretty cool. Like you, I hope they price them competitively to help bring the cost of these mounts down as strainwaves are indeed quite pricey at present.Clear skies
Hmm the counterweight IS to prevent it from falling over. It is not needed for balancing on a strainwave mount. If you have the counterweight on it and a heavy battery hanging in the tripod "bag", it will certainly not fall over even with a 25kg load.
I would have thought that being balanced in RA to some degree would be necessary for not falling over. Obviously not balancing it like you would a standard equatorial mount but at least close hence the point of the counterweight.
@@LogansAstro I agree. But the weight is solely there to make it stable. There are no clutches on these mounts so its only a guess where to put the counterweight.
Three ground screw anchors and ratchet straps work well too prevent tipping of a tripod. I did that when setting up my telescope to photograph the solar eclipse on April 8th. I was worried about wind or people tipping it over. Captured some good photos: th-cam.com/video/4BJGtOuvqj0/w-d-xo.htmlsi=8oQwGlSXOrxdjseF
Probably wise to take those precautions given the likely level of excitement of people around you during the eclipse. Capture looks great. Clear skies
Hi mate. I got mine all sorted. Recently got an askar103. Ive just uploaded a review if youre interested.
Just checked out your video and subbed 👍
@@LogansAstro many thanks you've joined a select group 😃😃😃