Anyone using Meade DSI?

IMO I really don't think the canon, going by what i've seen, can really touch the DSI-Pro, so even if it cost €600 new, it would be better value than a Canon at €500 second hand. The advantage of the Canon would be simplicity.

Well then you havent seen these images so

www.helixgate.net/
www.machunter.org/hapspics.html

One of the advantages of the canon eos is simplicity as you say. You dont need a PC to gather images. 6.3Mega pixels on a very large sensor compared to .3MP on the DSI. One shot colour. Not to mention you get a top quality camera for everyday use, which makes it much easier to justify the cost. Look theres no doubting that a thermoelectrically cooled dedicated CCD camera is the way to go if you can afford it. But neither the canon or DSI are thermo cooled.

Dont get me wrong, the DSI/PRO is a capable imager and worthy of consideration IMHO. However, based on performance, and value for money. The canon wins hands down in my book.

You can even get the new Canon 350D (8MP new for €748)

www.pixmania.com/ie/uk/xx/5/xx/1/1/criteresn.html

But I accept that the DSLR's, as evident by the pics on this board, are a serious consideration. They take fabulous images for sure, but the costs (either in terms of pure cash or time downloading software etc) may be more than the 500 quid you suggest. But I'd be prepared to be proved wrong on that point!

I'm not sure what you mean by software Dave. There are lots of software products available such as DSLR focus etc, but these are just extra and definitely not required. As far as hardware is concerned it depends on your scope, but with a standard SCT or newt the only thing you need is a €15 nose piece and a T-Ring. A cable release is nice too, (either manual or parallel port work just as well). Like all CCD cameras you can spend as much as you like on bits and bobs if you like. but it all comes back to your earlier point, its the mount that really matters.

Cant wait until my C9.25 arrives so I get out imaging that supernova in M51 (if its still there then)!!

Dave,
I have to agree with you regarding the canon/DSLRs in general.
Given 2 camera that are of good quality, I will always go for the one with the bigger chip so that a wider field of view can be achieved. I can get objects below 15th magnitude with the canon without alot of effort
Everything I've taken with the canon has been with a simple cable release.

There is nothing wrong with the DSI, I'm sure its a fine camera, infact I'd really like to try it out and see what I can get out of it.

Just another option to consider. Now I dont own one of these but I hear great things about them. They are the SAC instrument range of thermo-cooled CCD cameras. They seem very reasonably priced. Just dont get too excited and forget about shipping/VAT/importduty etc etc.

www.sac-imaging.com/main.html

Could definitely be a contender tho. Also seen one or two of these on astromart.

Dave,
I have to agree with you regarding the canon/DSLRs in general.

Get KeithG in here and us canon lovers might swing this one :lol:

Well then you havent seen these images so

www.helixgate.net/
www.machunter.org/hapspics.html

I suppose, Dave G the result is always in the hands of the user, and not always the product, try these
jemar.ldmi.net/astro/NGC3628.htm :wink:
Bill.