: I am interested in investing in a new telescope system. My price range is $2000.00 - $3500.00. I would dearly love to own a 5 or 6 inch Astro Physics or Takahashi apo, but life's realities being what they are I am open to suggestions. I am mainly interested in high-quality optics as opposed to giant apeture. Anyone out there know anything about Ceravolo or Parallax as alternatives to high-priced apo's? How about used Questars or even ( gulp! ) Mead's 7 inch Mak or their 7 inch ( semi ) apo? Talk to me.

Hi Walter, My 2 cents: For your price range as you say realistically a 5/6 inch Apo (AP/TAK) is out of the question, Id suggest a smaller Apo 3.5 - 4 inch maybe second hand, or how about An Intes 6 inch Mak-cass??? Ive heard they're good although I havent used one personally. I'd stay clear of the Meade Apo's (?) as ive heard bad things about them.

Hope this helps......Tony