I have my first telescope on the way, it is an LXD55 6" Refractor, and I am going to buy a barlow for it, but was trying to decide between the 2.5X and the 5X Powermate, and I was looking for some expert advice before I do. I noticed that the 2.5 and 5x are the same price ($168). Since the 5x barlow is not any more expensive than the 2.5, is the 5x not as good as the 2.5x, or is it just priced the same for no apparent reason?

I thought about getting the 5x Powermate because that would give me f/40 rather than f/20 with the 2.5. Is there any reason why I should NOT get the 5x Powermate, and go with the 2.5x? Someday I plan on getting a larger scope, like a 16" Dobsonian or a 14" SCT, but this is some time down the road, so I don't know if planning for a large future scope should determine which barlow I choose. I am getting the Meade eyepiece deal, so I will have a variety of eyepieces to use.

Another question. Should I use the Barlow with a lower power eyepiece to get high magnifications and operate at f/20 or f/40, or should I just use a high powered eyepiece by itself, operating at f/8? Which way will I get better images?

Thanks in advance for your help!
Scott

• 2.5X Or 5X Barlow? - astronomydave - July 2, 2003 - 14:52 UTC