Is this the BEST small ASTROGRAPH I've ever used? In-depth HONEST review of the Askar SQA55!

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  • Опубликовано: 23 дек 2024

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  • @CuivTheLazyGeek
    @CuivTheLazyGeek  18 дней назад +8

    The Askar SQA55 is a small Petzval design astrograph that gets amazing star shapes across a full frame sensor... AND offers great mechanical and quality of life features on the scope itself. Let's look at the details!
    My Patreon: www.patreon.com/cuivlazygeek
    My Merch Store: cuiv.myspreadshop.com/
    For any affiliate link purchases, make sure to accept cookies if prompted! Also, browser plugin "Honey" may steal commissions from creators if you interact with it (even just clicking on "OK" to the "No coupons found" message)!
    Get the Askar SQA55: bit.ly/4hEfW7l (Agena) or bit.ly/48u4PJC (HPS) or tinyurl.com/24mek4vc (FLO) or tinyurl.com/5yw5ccrd (All Star Telescope)
    An alternative is the SVBony SV555: bit.ly/3UWR0Os (use coupon cuiv20 for a further discount), and review here: ruclips.net/video/K0xrhftRYvU/видео.html
    Universal Focus Mask: tinyurl.com/p97bb3ub
    Cameras used for testing:
    ZWO ASI2600MC Air smart camera: tinyurl.com/tr2r3esn (ZWO) or bit.ly/3SV04Co (Agena,) or bit.ly/3SZARXx (HPS)
    Touptek SkyEye 24AC: tinyurl.com/yjwd836e
    Amazon affiliate: amzn.to/49XTx01
    Agena affiliate: bit.ly/3Om0hNG
    High Point Scientific affiliate: bit.ly/3lReu8R
    First Light Optics affiliate: tinyurl.com/yxd2jkr2
    All-Star Telescope affiliate: bit.ly/3SCgVbV
    Astroshop eu Affiliate: tinyurl.com/2vafkax8

    • @DanielMercado-d5y
      @DanielMercado-d5y 18 дней назад

      Thank you for this amazing video... can you do a video comparing side by side a takahashi and its equivalent scope ( babyQ 85 / 106ED takahashi) and that way see if the extra money worth it??? Thank you in advance.

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  17 дней назад

      @@DanielMercado-d5y if I get access to a Tak!

    • @DanielMercado-d5y
      @DanielMercado-d5y 16 дней назад

      @@CuivTheLazyGeek of course hahaha, is that true that in japan is cheaper to buy a Tak ?? If so maybe i need to go to japan and get one tak and do a review. hahaha

  • @gnnyman
    @gnnyman 16 дней назад +5

    I bought it, I tested it in depth and I like it very much. Perfect image quality, even ar full frame... !

  • @beanixrising
    @beanixrising 16 дней назад +6

    I'm so happy as an SQA55 owner....I did my own research before buying as was thinking about the cats, but after comparing went with the Askar...now all the reviews are coming in confirming I made the correct choice! I have not had a chance to use it under the stars because of lousy weather, but I can't wait to get it out - thanks Cuiv I learn a lot from watching your reviews, which has helped me make a good choice here.

  • @lukomatico
    @lukomatico 18 дней назад +21

    So happy to see your video on this mate :-D it's amazing how similar our thoughts are on it!! Excellent review of a truly excellent scope!! ❤️

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  18 дней назад +3

      Right?! It's such an amazing little thing!

  • @darkskygeek
    @darkskygeek 18 дней назад +9

    This may be the most time-effective review I have ever seen on RUclips since the first 10 seconds say it all 😁 Great review, as always! Thanks for putting the time to do the research and produce this video. I am trying to get my hands on the SQA85 to compare it with the Takahashi FSQ85. Let’s see… Askar does make very compelling products (I am very happy with my 151PHQ!) またね

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  17 дней назад

      Hahaha fancy seeing you here! I really hope you can get the SQA85 and compare it to your BabyQ!!

  • @randymo8709
    @randymo8709 17 дней назад +4

    Oh no Cuiv, I just got a SQA85 and now you are putting me down the SQA55 rabbit hole. Good thing my house is paid off!

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  17 дней назад +1

      Well, first congrats on having your house paid off ;) I hope this SQA85 is working great for you!

    • @sjpp71
      @sjpp71 16 дней назад +4

      @@CuivTheLazyGeek I hope someone makes a video about a "clash" between a Tak FSQ85 and the Askar SQ85

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  16 дней назад +3

      @@sjpp71 I hope @darkskygeek can do that, he has the BabyQ!

  • @IronMan-2024
    @IronMan-2024 18 дней назад

    It’s really nice to see that anyone can take a nice scope out of the box and get such great results. The hobby is hard enough and taking the optics out of the equation makes for a pleasant experience.

  • @dadwhitsett
    @dadwhitsett 18 дней назад +5

    Great review so yeah, I bought it with EAF attachment (off your affiliate link, of course). I've been shooting at 360 mm but I needed something in this focal range and as a Petzval with marked camera rotator it is perfect! TY!

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  17 дней назад

      I ended up getting purchasing the EAF attachment, it's also very well designed!

  • @KikeV-l9y
    @KikeV-l9y 15 дней назад +1

    Can't wait to get mine...nice review, thanks for sharing, CS!

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  14 дней назад +1

      If it's as good as my sample you're going to love it!!

  • @marvinwhisman3333
    @marvinwhisman3333 18 дней назад +2

    Great review. I was so impressed with this little refractor that I ordered one (got to see your review early with my patreon contribution :) ). It arrived two days ago as well as the complementary clouds that come with all new scopes. Really am excited about the nice flat fields and I am a huge fan of Petzval design scopes.

  • @BelgianTex
    @BelgianTex 17 дней назад +1

    It’s on my list as the top choice for my first wide field “telescope” as a first step for moving up from my mirrorless setup
    Thanks for the review! Very helpful

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  17 дней назад +1

      If every sample is as good as this one (and reports from the wild are positive) it will be a beast!

  • @blufferblue1599
    @blufferblue1599 18 дней назад +4

    I hope they sent you SQA 106 as well. It looks to have better stars at the edge of the Medium Format camera, than most scopes have in the middle, which is kinda nuts.
    Oh, and great review Cuiv, thanks for the amazing work!

    • @geomark8851
      @geomark8851 18 дней назад +2

      While you are at it, we would also like a review of the SQA 85. Not much on RUclips so far but everyone has them in stock. I'm guessing Askar has not sent them to the usual reviewers and it makes me wonder why they haven't especially when the price is taken into account.

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  17 дней назад +5

      SQA106 isn't quite ready yet! But SQA85.... I might be getting one soon :D

    • @blufferblue1599
      @blufferblue1599 17 дней назад

      @@CuivTheLazyGeek Oh nice!

  • @shadowOrgon
    @shadowOrgon 18 дней назад +2

    I'll definitely have to put this one on the list to look into in the future when I want another scope (I already feel the bug getting me with that).
    and don't worry Cuiv, totally didn't notice the back piece of the scope fall off at 6:56, nope... totally haven't done that exact same thing with the FMA 180 PRO a dozen times already lol..

  • @alexandresantana7105
    @alexandresantana7105 17 дней назад +1

    Great review as always. Looks like we have here an amazing refractor. Thanks Civ.

  • @deep_space_dave
    @deep_space_dave 18 дней назад +2

    As always, excellent review Cuiv! Thanks!

  • @rinceart
    @rinceart 18 дней назад +14

    Very nice scope. But, the choice of a helical focuser is kind of unfortunate (as well as the aperture adjustment ring; although you can just leave that open). I understand they were going for a telescope/camera lens combo, but I have a hard time seeing its usefulness. Even William Optics moved away from this concept. Otherwise, it is an excellent telescope.

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  18 дней назад +9

      Since filming the video, I negotiated to buy my sample, and also bought the EAF kit - it works beautifully and the belt tensioner is excellent, so while I agree that I prefer R&P type focusers, this helical focuser doesn't bother me at all in the end!

    • @rinceart
      @rinceart 18 дней назад +3

      @@CuivTheLazyGeek you're completely right. It is not a deal killer by any means, more like a minor hindrance. :)
      But, say what you will about WO (I am not a huge fan myself), their internal focuser is quite nice. I would be all over an SQA55-II with a similar internal focuser, no aperture adjustment, and perhaps a little bigger image circle to cut down on that pesky vignetting (even though it is easily correctable).

    • @svfixerup
      @svfixerup 12 дней назад

      I choose to purchase this scope over the new redcat 51 gen 3 do to the flat field and sharp stars seen on the edges especially in this price range. Some of the images on astrobin with no post processing are very impressive. My askar sqa55 is on its way. I do have a question though. Did you find any walking noise/raining noise in your tests or did you dither enough to not have an issues. Thanks again for all the great content!

    • @randymo8709
      @randymo8709 8 дней назад

      @@CuivTheLazyGeekNice that you could buy your sample avoiding the lottery! Well played sir.

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  8 дней назад

      @randymo8709 Ha! True! Although I have heard of other good samples in the wild (phew)

  • @Liqudus
    @Liqudus 17 дней назад +1

    Thanks Cuiv, this is great! I now have a solid recommendation for when anyone asks for a good widefield scope. I'm also considering it as a nice travel scope!

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  17 дней назад

      It's awesome to see such good widefield alternatives!

  • @jimmazurek5589
    @jimmazurek5589 18 дней назад +2

    I am using the Askar 180 Pro, which has similar features and quality. It’s the perfect travel AP scope. The people at Askar really know what they’re doing.

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  18 дней назад

      Yep, they seem to have cracked the code to manufacturing and assembly tolerances too!

  • @michaelw6173
    @michaelw6173 17 дней назад +1

    Askar thought this one out. I bought it about 8 weeks ago, but not just for Astro when camping. The fact that it can be used for terrestrial photography is a bonus. I do like that Askar threaded the front for camera filters which means I do not have to get a second Bahtinov Mask.

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  17 дней назад

      Yeah it's really a solid, well thought out offering

  • @AndyLucy-z3x
    @AndyLucy-z3x 18 дней назад +2

    If you put a bright star in the corner, using an APS-c sensor, the image shows some aberration (faint cut-outs in the star shape, caused by aperture vignetting).
    For Astro work, it’s best to tape up the aperture ring, since it can be inadvertently moved (been there, done that, got the (unwanted) starburst effect)
    The fine focus ring has 1/10 the sensitivity of the coarse focus ring.
    Overall results are very good. Use 2x drizzle with BlurXterminator and the results are outstanding, revealing excellent detail across the whole field.

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  17 дней назад

      Awesome to hear - and good idea on the aperture ring!

  • @astrothib
    @astrothib 18 дней назад +2

    I got this scope the minute it came out and it's been amazing. While I'm planning to add the EAF kit, I was surprised to see it held focus over multiple nights. So I agree, the only annoying thing is the case. For asiair users, I screw the air under the front part of the dovetail.

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  17 дней назад

      Glad to see the copies "in the wild" are also performing great!"

  • @seanod42
    @seanod42 17 дней назад +1

    Hi Cuiv
    Great video mate Askar has done it again

  • @barthennin6088
    @barthennin6088 12 дней назад

    Excellent and informative review!

  • @markalot
    @markalot 18 дней назад +2

    I really like Askar optics, my first real scope was the FRA300 and I don't think it's as good, but still excellent, it just works. As far as this lens goes, awesome, but I'll stick with my Roki 135 for now. :) Thanks for the review.

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  17 дней назад

      I heard lots of good things about the FRA300!

  • @ralfdinkelmeyer6221
    @ralfdinkelmeyer6221 18 дней назад +2

    Already bought the SV555 from your last review for 550 EUR, I think it's still worth it. No second one!

    • @BenGieCruz
      @BenGieCruz 17 дней назад

      Same here! 💪🏼

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  17 дней назад +1

      Yep, the SV555 is also insane value for its price, and more that enough for most!

  • @efx245precor3
    @efx245precor3 15 дней назад

    16:02 noticed same immediately. Sv555 was spiked on brighter stars.

  • @sammadonline
    @sammadonline 17 дней назад +1

    Bought it just when it came out, it’s phenomenal!

  • @VisionCommunications
    @VisionCommunications 18 дней назад +1

    Great review. I just purchased the Askar SQA55 using the Agena affiliate link. I’ve been using Canon 300mm f/4 L for wide field, which has worked out very well, even with the 2X teleconverter, but using a proper telescope will be more convenient. I plan to get a EAF to use with it.

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  17 дней назад

      Awesome, thank you for your support! Hope it works great for you!

  • @mrtransistor6173
    @mrtransistor6173 17 дней назад +2

    I was shocked about the price. It's perfect. Literal perfection.

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  17 дней назад

      Yep!

    • @derekbaker3279
      @derekbaker3279 16 дней назад +1

      I'm not trying to be a argumentative jerk here, just sharing what I have learned from evaluating optics for 50 years, i.e. my thoughts, for what they're worth....for your interest, especially if you are relatively new to astronomy....
      No, it isn't perfect. For starters, as is the case with all Askar optics, there is noticeable chromatic aberration, even in the APC sensor. This indicates either a very poor design, or more likely given Askar never reveals the glass they use, they use cheaper quality glass than most manufacturers. FYI, not only does that mean that the colour correction is not optimal, but it makes me wonder if the homogeneity of the glass is sub-standard (which will affect things like opacity of the glass), if the coatings are on all surfaces, and if the coatings suppress reflections over the entire spectrum that CMOS sensors can detect. (..in fact, it is possible that some of what looks like chromatic aberration is actually internal reflections in the deep red/near IR and/or violet/near UV ends of the spectrum..)
      Also, as Cuiv pointed out, his test with the full-frame camera was not very discerning, because the pixels are 6um wide, versus 3.76um in the APC camera he used,. I seriously suspect that testing with an ASI6200MM Pro or other camera with 3.76um pixels would reveal even more issues near the sizes & corners of the frame.
      Having said that....while any aberrations, poor colour correction, lower than optimal opacity, and internal reflections do reduce contrast & increase the true f-ratio...it is pretty clear that the lens does produce very good results that are more than sufficient for the vast majority of imagers, especially if they factor in the enticing price.
      Cheers,
      Derek

  • @JVRost
    @JVRost 18 дней назад +2

    Excellent tool, I can't wait for the weather to run my baby SharpStar 50 EDPH under the sky. Today I received a normal reducer from the company instead of a defective one. Of course, I don't expect the same impressive result in the frame field, but at least I hope for a better result than the previous one.

    • @sjpp71
      @sjpp71 17 дней назад

      I just got one this week.Tiny cute small telescope. No first light yet. Would you care telling what was wrong with your flattener?

    • @JVRost
      @JVRost 17 дней назад

      @@sjpp71 The locking ring that holds the entire lens assembly in place was not tightened in the reducer at the factory, ))) And the front lens of the reducer fell inside the telescope tube, it’s good that I was holding the telescope horizontally at that moment.

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  17 дней назад +1

      Fingers crossed it works great with the new reducer!

    • @sjpp71
      @sjpp71 16 дней назад +1

      @@JVRost Ugh, sorry you went through that, probably not common but definitely not a good look for their quality control... I was getting ridiculous coma at the corners but then realised the backfocus is 55mm from the base of the M48 thread, I was counting from the surface of the FF!

    • @JVRost
      @JVRost 16 дней назад

      @@sjpp71 Yes, their instructions say that 55 mm should be counted from the base of the thread M 48

  • @40Sec
    @40Sec 15 дней назад

    I had to choose between the Sharpstar 61edph iii and the Askar FRA300. I went for the faster optics of the 61edph iii, but something like the SQA55 seems like a great upgrade in the future. I really can't do the belt EAF system as I pack my gear in a backpack, but hopefully we see something similar with a different focuser in the future. It's also great that Askar/Sharpstar is really dropping the price point for great optics. I haven't seen price adjustments yet from other manufacturers, but if they want to stay competitive they're really going to need to make some changes. Although the optical quality isn't on the level of the SQA series, I still can't believe you can get a solid 140mm triplet from Sharpstar for the same price as a 120mm ED doublet from Skywatcher. It's a great time to be in the hobby.

  • @shilohbridgewater6407
    @shilohbridgewater6407 18 дней назад +2

    I am absolutely blown away by mine! It's def taken my astrophotography to the next level with pinpoint stars. I am bit bummed I cannot find an additional quick release handle for my asiair using a guide scope😔 No crazy gripes tho

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  18 дней назад +2

      Good point! Just sent them a message to tell them to please sell such a handle separately!

    • @astro_shooter76
      @astro_shooter76 17 дней назад

      Thats my negative......mounting additional equipment ie: Pegasus, asiair, etc........where to mount everything else?!?!?!

    • @shilohbridgewater6407
      @shilohbridgewater6407 16 дней назад +1

      @astro_shooter76 I found a solution. Did some sleuthing after watching lukomatico's review on it and his mounting solutions. He Placed two Altair keystone riser blocks between two additional Askar LDP 300 universal dovetails. It allows you to place all asiair etc under the scope while using a guide scope. A lot more money, but a solution nontheless.

    • @shilohbridgewater6407
      @shilohbridgewater6407 16 дней назад

      @@astro_shooter76 If you see tons of comments, please ignore. My response keeps disappearing on my end. 2 askar LSP300 dovetails sandwiched between 2 Altair keystone riser blocks works. Look at lukomatico's review. Allows you to place everything inside the makeshift "cage" below the scope.

    • @shilohbridgewater6407
      @shilohbridgewater6407 16 дней назад

      @@astro_shooter76 I found a solution using two askaar ldp300 dovetails sandwiched between two ataiir keystone riser blocks. Watch LucoMatico review to get a visual

  • @murraymacd
    @murraymacd 17 дней назад +1

    Great review. Getting more pro (at content creation) with every video. More b-roll please.

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  17 дней назад

      I'll try, I'm still very allergic to b-roll!

  • @rakitakhan
    @rakitakhan 17 дней назад +3

    I have yet to see Godzilla walk across the background. Thx Cuiv !

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  17 дней назад +1

      I'll do my best to have Godzilla walking across the background next time!

  • @TommyM-j7v
    @TommyM-j7v 15 дней назад +1

    Hi Cuiv. Awesome as always. So one weird question. Sorry if this is a dumb question. I understand the Askar SQA55 Quintuplet does not require a field flattener. However, could it still be used with a reducer? If so, do you know of any reducers that might work with it?

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  14 дней назад

      No, I don't think it can be used with a reducer - I think F4.8 is pretty good already, if you want F4.5 you'll need to look at the SVBony SV555!

  • @Astrofrank
    @Astrofrank 16 дней назад

    What do you think about the Askar FMA180 (not pro)? It is a tiny (40 mm aperture) triplet apo and comes with a full-frame flattener/reducer. Without that, the telescope can be used with a star diagonal and eyepiece, or a 45-degrees Amici prism and eyepiece, or a Herschel wedge and eyepiece (or camera). It seems to be very versatile.

  • @christotty327
    @christotty327 18 дней назад +1

    I own one and they are fantastic. I REALLY wish they offered an additional guide scope mount which could be used to mount a mini PC. Unfortunately, they don't

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  17 дней назад

      I've asked them to sell them separately, I hope they go for it!

    • @christotty327
      @christotty327 17 дней назад

      @@CuivTheLazyGeek Thank You!! I did the same a while back, I'm hoping others have asked as well. It truly is an awesome scope !
      I designed and printed a few parts for it. A front support mount to stop the flexing, and a small adapter to allow mounting a mini guide scope dovetail on one of the side mounts. If anyone is in need search Thingiverse for Askar SQA55 and you should find the 3 items I created.

  • @gnagy001
    @gnagy001 17 дней назад +1

    Hi Cuiv, Did the guiding sensor on the ZWO2600Air work well with the M48 connector? That is, you did not need an M54 connector for the guiding sensor to get enough light? Thanks for the review!

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  17 дней назад +1

      No issues whatsoever, but I haven't tried with a narrowband filter yet

    • @gnagy001
      @gnagy001 17 дней назад

      @@CuivTheLazyGeek Thanks! I just bought one of these scopes to replace my redcat 51 (first generation). Keep the good work!

  • @AsKyOdA
    @AsKyOdA 18 дней назад +1

    I am delighted the cat it out of the bag with the new Askar 😅

  • @faisalalha1786
    @faisalalha1786 10 дней назад +1

    Very convincing...good work. But a noob question: I have a 300mm Nikon f4 lens (prime) that I use with Z6 (full frame). Why do i need this instead? I mean what benefit do i get (practical)? I am just starting out in Astro-Photo, just got my GTi mount. Just waiting for full moon to go away to try out.

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  10 дней назад

      If you get good enough stars with your Nikon F4 lens, no need to changed! Typically F4 primes will need to be closed to around F5.6 to have acceptable star shapes (and thus sharpness) across the field, but there is lens lottery!

    • @faisalalha1786
      @faisalalha1786 10 дней назад

      @@CuivTheLazyGeek Thank you. My thought is why spend so much to get similar focal length. Will save up for at least 400-500mm telescope.

  • @migueduarte77
    @migueduarte77 18 дней назад +1

    Hello Cuiv, great review. Seeing so many viable options pop up regularly in the market is nice. Going back to your video where a small Newtonian is compared to a small refractor, I have a question: how do you believe this SQA55 would compare to, let's say, an Apertura Carbonstar 150, which falls in the same price bracket? Thanks

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  17 дней назад

      That's an excellent question - I think I would need to compare the SQA85 though to have at least a semblance of competition in terms of focal length!

  • @cjermo
    @cjermo 17 дней назад +1

    Thanks as always Cuiv! Different scopes, obviously, but how much better (or worse) does it perform against the Askar V with the 60mm reducer, giving about the same focal length?

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  17 дней назад +1

      The Askar V with the 60mm + reducer is no slouch... but the SQA55 is better...

  • @PaMalacrida
    @PaMalacrida 18 дней назад +1

    Thanks for another great review. It looks like the vignetting on the full frame is very different from left corners to right corners. Is that something to worry about?

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  17 дней назад

      True - I don't think it's something to worry about, I see that to some extent in pretty much every scope I use

  • @petesastrophotography
    @petesastrophotography 17 дней назад +1

    Excellent review as well Cuiv. Looking forward to playing with this scope, I ordered it before I even got to the end of Luke's video :)

  • @OutriderFIN
    @OutriderFIN 18 дней назад +1

    Ended up ordering the SV555 as my first telescope based on your last review. This one looks great also but it's almost double the price.

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  17 дней назад +1

      Exactly, the SV555 is insane bang for the buck!

    • @StarlancerAstro
      @StarlancerAstro 11 дней назад

      Yes I ordered a SV555 as well, the price is unbeatable and even got a guide scope and dew heater as the same price as the scope alone, couldn't say no. Will be an awesome portable setup.

  • @javaman4584
    @javaman4584 18 дней назад +2

    I recently watched some videos that tested camera lenses for astrophotography, and wow, I had no idea how bad the images were even on lenses that cost many times what this lens does. $1800 lenses with coma, astigmatism, chromatic abberation, and field curvature - unbelievable.

    • @roopey
      @roopey 18 дней назад +2

      Yeah camera lenses can be anything. It's crazy. It almost feels like a scam.
      Worst of it all is that they can do an excellent job, if they want to. I own an Canon 32mm f1.4 for the discontinued ef-m mount which is awesome. Sharp and clean, even wide open. It is even better than much more expensive lenses

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  17 дней назад +1

      I think there's far more lottery with camera lenses - most people will never know they got a lemon...

  • @guyyanez6949
    @guyyanez6949 17 дней назад +1

    It seems to outperform the Redcat 51 which is already an exceptional little scope. Now, here is a difficult question: Would you sell a Redcat 51 to get yourself the SQA55?

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  16 дней назад +1

      That's what I've just done. Bought the SQA, sold the red cat

  • @vmh104
    @vmh104 18 дней назад +1

    Hi Cuiv, As Always very grateful for your videos. Quick Question: It's older brother the ACL200 has an odd quirk in that the entire front of the telescope (lens) moves when you (coarse) focus. (I did not realize till I made a triple scope setup and made a bracket to hold the front of the scopes together. My painful lesson ;) )
    Is it the same with the SQA55 (it's hard to notice if you're not looking for it)
    Thx!

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  17 дней назад +1

      The front of the SQA55 does move, so it's not fully itnernal

  • @lostmypicks
    @lostmypicks 15 дней назад +1

    Wow.. I'm already looking at the askar 103APO which seems like an awesome scope. Now I'm thinking this one will also find a home on my mount. Lol

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  14 дней назад +1

      I'm honestly so much looking forward to the SQA106!!

    • @lostmypicks
      @lostmypicks 14 дней назад

      @CuivTheLazyGeek that looks like an excellent bit of kit for sure!

  • @DeepSkyChronicles-m8b
    @DeepSkyChronicles-m8b 18 дней назад +1

    Great review !! So if you have to decide between the SV555 and the SQA55, with one will you chose ? wich one have more value for money ? Thank you so much !

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  17 дней назад

      Bang for the buck, SV555 - but the SQA55 is worth the upgrade. Difficult choice ;)

  • @Naztronomy
    @Naztronomy 17 дней назад +1

    If this was out when I was considering a redcat years ago, this would be the clear winner. And now I'm just trying not to spend all my money :)
    Great review!

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  17 дней назад +1

      Keep doing those good mosaic stacking videos ;)

    • @Naztronomy
      @Naztronomy 17 дней назад

      @@CuivTheLazyGeek Thanks, Cuiv :)

  • @naegeleh
    @naegeleh 18 дней назад +1

    Thanks for the comprehensive review, can these side adapter plates of the SQA55 bei used for the connection of guidescopes or the asiair?

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  17 дней назад

      No it seems they would need to sell additional arms, good point!

  • @christophdunkel1562
    @christophdunkel1562 18 дней назад +1

    Thanks for the review. Theoretically, if the SQA106 would be the same, would it be better or worse than an FSQ106EDX4? Or is the FSQ still in it's own class?

    • @blufferblue1599
      @blufferblue1599 18 дней назад

      On paper it's better than Tak. However no reducer for the Askar is out, at least yet, for those crazy F3 speed.

    • @christophdunkel1562
      @christophdunkel1562 18 дней назад

      @@blufferblue1599 that is exactly what I thought. The thing is, I do not see any of these chromatic abberations on any of my Tak pictures. Hence my question. Always on the hunt if something better is out there. But in this case I fail to properly understand it yet.

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  17 дней назад

      I wish I could get my hands on a Tak like that :)

  • @svfixerup
    @svfixerup 18 дней назад +1

    Wow these reviews of the askar lens are coming fast and furious. They have changed my mind and i will not choose the recat 51 as my entry lens into the hoby. Thanks for the content!!

    • @luboinchina3013
      @luboinchina3013 18 дней назад

      You should also consider Sharpstar EDPHiii with 1.0x flattener. I got it for just over 4000CNY and the stars and star shapes are amazing. Friend has Takahashi of the same focal length and mine beats his fair and square, it leaves it miles behind. I have 8HD and I wanted something wider and this small scope brought me back into the hobby when I was losing motivation. There is no wonder why Trevor has chosen it as a base for his signature scope and put his name on it.

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  17 дней назад

      It's honestly, really an impressive scope. I'm wondering if they've finally figured out how to lower manufacturing and assembly tolerances

    • @luboinchina3013
      @luboinchina3013 16 дней назад

      @@CuivTheLazyGeek Especially because now it has two ED elements

  • @Byaltair
    @Byaltair 15 дней назад +1

    Hi Cuiv, thank you for another awesome video!
    In Australia, ASKAR SQA55 is $1300, the SVBONY SV555 is $800. Is Askar worth extra $500?
    I was thinking of getting Askar but $500 extra is kinda a lot.
    Cheers mate

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  14 дней назад +1

      I think the SV555 would be enough for 80% of people!

    • @Byaltair
      @Byaltair 14 дней назад

      @CuivTheLazyGeek thanks mate

  • @alandyer910
    @alandyer910 17 дней назад +2

    Excellent test, thank you! I have an SQA55 as well but I’m not seeing anywhere near the level of vignetting you are showing. I see just a minor level of vignetting more in keeping with Askar’s promised specs on field illumination, which claims only a 10% falloff at the corners of a full-frame sensor. You are showing much worse vignetting even on a cropped frame camera, and uneven with the right side much darker than the left. As it is, your results are contrary to Askar’s promised performance, and any difference between promised and actual performance is just what a review should point out. So what might be the explanation of the vignetting you show? It can’t be just sky gradients from your urban site? It would be “enlightening” to find out! Thanks! I enjoy your reviews as they are always thorough and cover products we often don’t hear about in North America.

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  16 дней назад

      Remember that I'm using auto stretch! Different levels of auto stretch will show different levels of vignetting, and exaggerate differences, it's a map transfer function (so you can't say anything conclusive from this video - tbh I never consider vignetting to be much of an issue for me)
      The proper way of measuring would be to use flat frames and look at the pixel values - I'll do that for my next scope review!

  • @Phillyo118
    @Phillyo118 18 дней назад +1

    Anyone wanna buy my redcat 51? I think I'm sold on this for my portable setup! Hopefully the SQA106 performs as well, or better, than this little gem! Thanks Cuiv, again, for another fantastic review.

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  17 дней назад

      Hahaha your RC51 is still a very good scope :D

  • @gspinin
    @gspinin 16 дней назад +1

    SQA85 next? Excellent review!

  • @artyombeilis9075
    @artyombeilis9075 18 дней назад +1

    What would you recommend for wide field but for smaller sensor size - I don't need APS-C - just basic sensor and fast scope? I've read about EvoGuide 50 + flatner but it seems to have problematic focuser with huge backlash.

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  17 дней назад +1

      Would work great with a 294 of 533, still gives you so good FOV!

    • @artyombeilis9075
      @artyombeilis9075 17 дней назад

      @@CuivTheLazyGeek are you talking on this scope? Obviously it would work with smaller sensor. But it comes on premium.

  • @PaMalacrida
    @PaMalacrida 17 дней назад

    Any suggestion for a similar quality OTA in the 400-500mm range? I have seen Askar has a 85 version but we also approach the 3000 $ range 😢

  • @siegfriednoet
    @siegfriednoet 17 дней назад +1

    Nice review Quiv, Askar had been sending them to a lot of youtubers
    For me this type of focusser (helical) is a bit of negative point

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  17 дней назад +1

      Agree - although now that I have an EAF fitted to it... no longer an issue!

  • @ACKitsBilltheCAT
    @ACKitsBilltheCAT 17 дней назад

    I was wondering if you think that the case could conceivably be modified if one was to install an EAF?
    I understand that with the standard foam and OTA orientation there isn’t physical room for the EAF.
    Is the interior foam removable from the outer case?
    If the OTA turned on its side and the foam was fully replaced, would everything fit in your opinion?
    Just curious.
    BTW - love your channel!

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  17 дней назад

      mmmmmmmmh maybe? But I think the fit is too tight

  • @KevinRudd-w8s
    @KevinRudd-w8s 18 дней назад +1

    Hi Cuiv, another great review. Looks to be a great piece of kit but I wont be buying one. I don't doubt its performance but I think the small refractor end of the market is pretty saturated at the moment. At the end of the day this is still more or less an f5 scope. On the few nights a month that I can image from where I live, it is rare that the sky is clear enough to image for more than about three hours a night, with an f5 scope it can take up to to two months to capture enough data to produce a reasonably noise free image, so in my case my next scope will have to be something a lot faster, I'm beginning to think that something like a C8 with a hyperstar might actually be a better fit for my own circumstances, I just wish there was more competition at this end of the market.

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  17 дней назад

      Check Lukomatico's recent Hyperstar video! Or just go for a Newt - Newts are love, Newts are life ;)

    • @KevinRudd-w8s
      @KevinRudd-w8s 17 дней назад

      @@CuivTheLazyGeek Thanks Cuiv, It was actually Luke's video that gave me the idea for the Hyperstar. I will revisit some of your Newtonian videos though. Clear skies.

  • @luboinchina3013
    @luboinchina3013 18 дней назад +1

    How does it compare to SharpstarEDPHIII? I am constantly amazed by its quality. Have you still got it?

    • @luboinchina3013
      @luboinchina3013 18 дней назад

      Recommend with 1.0 flattener

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  18 дней назад

      I had the EDPH II (the one Trevor's scope was based on) which is completely different from the EDPH III! I've actually never tested the III, so I can't say much about it.
      The II obviously had the horrendous CA issue I had found, but that was fixed by a free objective lens exchange program, but otherwise was a good little scope!

    • @luboinchina3013
      @luboinchina3013 18 дней назад +1

      @@CuivTheLazyGeek I really recommend the iii version with 1.0 flattener . It really is amazing. Something to compare and review.

  • @KingLoopie1
    @KingLoopie1 18 дней назад +1

    Well after space koala's review and this one from you, Cuiv, I really want one. The only problem is that I have too many other combinations to get the same field of view with a Canon rp and other astro cameras with different lens and telescope combinations... 😢 Might need to sell some stuff if these sqa55's continue to get good reviews. 👍👍

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  17 дней назад

      Keep looking for data points, will be good to see more in the wild as well!

  • @LukeKwan78
    @LukeKwan78 16 дней назад

    are there refractor scope that have a faster aperture? my sony 70-200 and 300mm lens are F2.8. and my 600mm is F4

  • @terrizittritsch745
    @terrizittritsch745 9 дней назад +1

    Cuiv, Don’t know if you watch comments on older videos, but I received the Askar SQA55 purchased from your link, and it’s defective. I can’t say I’ve received much defective product from Agena, but it is disappointing nonetheless. The SQA55 shoe that the dovetail bracket goes into is loose with no apparent way to tighten it. It must be from the inside. And best I can tell, there is no easy way to open this telescope. There are 4 of these attachment points on the lens and 2 of them are loose, one very loose which is used for the mount dovetail. Hard to see how this escaped QA. I’ve contacted Agena for an RMA and they want to contact ASKAR. So it’s all turning into a long protracted mess. It’s what I get for being an early adopter. Oh well not your fault, but sometimes Females get this kind of treatment from astronomy and photography vendors (many times 2nd hand returns are pawned off on us, and then the doubt when an issue is reported and then the long run-around to resolve things).

  • @mehdiabed6942
    @mehdiabed6942 17 дней назад +1

    i'm looking forward to SQA106 , this is the FSQ106 that takahashi do not produce anymore and for one third cheaper .

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  17 дней назад +1

      Yesss! I hope to get my hands on it when it becomes available!

  • @Jcastleinfo
    @Jcastleinfo 18 дней назад +4

    I really don't understand this "trend" of making dual telescope/camera lens things. You can get much better telephoto lenses for you DLSR with all the other features of a good DSLR matched lens. So, why overcomplicate a telescope with adjustable aperture?

    • @Ben_Stewart
      @Ben_Stewart 18 дней назад +1

      I can get really sharp stars in the corner of my Nikon Z 70-200 but I can't mate it with a ZWO camera due to backfocus being too close.

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  17 дней назад

      Honestly not sure, but it doesn't really bother me - the EAF attachment I purchased is excellent too - still used as a lens I think it would be superior to telephoto lenses (even prime ones) in terms of pure image sharpness. Would be interesting to get "real" photographer opinions after using it

  • @eaojnr
    @eaojnr 7 дней назад

    how does it compare with Celestron Nexstar 8HD?

  • @desbarry8414
    @desbarry8414 17 дней назад

    Mmm but my camera is female 42mm thread, does it come with a converter ?

  • @ricklaird2218
    @ricklaird2218 16 дней назад

    great reveiw

  • @drunk_astronomy
    @drunk_astronomy 18 дней назад +1

    It’s OK to pixel peep if you’re analyzing the optics. of course, do it all the time it might possibly drive one mad. 🤪

  • @AstroCloudGenerator
    @AstroCloudGenerator 18 дней назад +1

    The proof of the pudding with all Askar gear will be how well it holds up in the Astrophotography quality lottery.
    Once burned twice shy.

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  17 дней назад

      Yes indeed! Fortunately reports I'm getting from the wild are very encouraging for now!

  • @DSOImager
    @DSOImager 17 дней назад +1

    Let us take a moment and honor the pixel peepers among us. I credit this often maligned group of people with encouraging telescope makers to address poor corner stars.. which have plagued us for years.
    The competition is heating up. I don't think telling folks to rely on software to fix corner stars is going to cut it :)

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  17 дней назад +1

      True! Thank you to all the pixel peepers out there!

  • @ferenc-x7p
    @ferenc-x7p 17 дней назад +1

    At this point, with what we have, I don't think it's economically efficient to buy a doublet or even a triplet in this size (50-60mm). Just get this, or someone on a budget, get the Svbony SV555. Don't bother with doublets and triplets and mess around with backfocus issues, and still dealing with F5.9 (at best), while these scopes are a full F stop faster! Not to mention the hidden cost of the flattener. Now I feel like, getting a full frame camera starts to make sense😊 , it's just my bank acct. that went on strike. 🙄

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  17 дней назад

      Absolutely. This and the SV555 are a quiet revolution imo.

  • @efx245precor3
    @efx245precor3 15 дней назад

    Might want to use higher f ratio for planetary just guessing

  • @mevansmrichard
    @mevansmrichard 18 дней назад

    Oh, good, a telescope that’s sealed tighter than my weekend plans. Because the real enemy of astronomy is air? LOL

  • @petekrz
    @petekrz 18 дней назад +1

    No smiling cat? Dealbreaker! 🙂

  • @terrizittritsch745
    @terrizittritsch745 18 дней назад +1

    Hi Cuiv, another great review and based on what you said previously, I'm going to do something I don't usually do and that's buy a telescope based on a youtube review. I usually take a while and multiple data sources to make decisions as it's still in my DNA being a retired engineer. But based on the fact that dingdong running the country next year is at least threatening tariffs, which means price increases, and I've needed a wide field imaging scope for some time, I ordered one through your channel. If it doesn't work out you'll be the first to know :)

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  17 дней назад

      Oh wow! I really hope it works out! For now, it does look like reports from the wild are very positive - and you're right, with looming tariffs, the time to stock up is now...

    • @IIKings211
      @IIKings211 13 дней назад

      My data sources indicate the economy will be much better, which means I'll have more $$ to spend on AP 😂

  • @radioparisment628
    @radioparisment628 10 дней назад

    Obviously ! Look at the specs !!! And results !!!!!

  • @bad_metaphor
    @bad_metaphor 17 дней назад +1

    Still see CA but better than the SV555. The astrobin samples look good too.

  • @peter26514
    @peter26514 18 дней назад

    sounds cool, but isnt a sub 1000 € lens kind of "underpowered", considering the rest of your gear (camera and mount) cost like 5 times as much?

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  17 дней назад +1

      It's a great widefield lens/scope, would pair great with an AM3 + 2600MC Air for instance! Now I'm curious about the SQA85 and SQA106!

  • @TheCosmicGuy0111
    @TheCosmicGuy0111 18 дней назад +1

    Sweet

  • @-Jeremiah-
    @-Jeremiah- 17 дней назад +1

    OMG I am going to have to reprocess ALL of my photos from the last couple years.
    I was watching you check the edges of the image for star shapes and you kept saying (almost disappointedly) saying "perfectly round"
    And I'm thinking to myself, aren't they a little oblong?
    THEN I PUT MY GLASSES ON. Sheesh... I've been throwing out perfectly good frames
    (I'm new to glasses BTW, but I've needed them for a couple years at least)
    Great review. I already have the RedCat so.... ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  17 дней назад

      Oh man that's something I would never have thought about! Well have fun reprocessing ;)

    • @-Jeremiah-
      @-Jeremiah- 17 дней назад

      @ on the plus side I might get an all new set of pics from this realization!
      Hahaha thank you for that!

  • @toneotoneo
    @toneotoneo 15 дней назад

    What happened to the sv555? 😬

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  14 дней назад

      As I mentioned in the review video, it was on loan for review and so I gave it back. I kinda sorta purchased the SQA55 though :p

    • @toneotoneo
      @toneotoneo 14 дней назад

      Yes but a direct comparison with the little svbony would have been nicer ...the redcat was a lost battle already..btw since you are there a visit to starbase would be ideal with the direct prices they have there 😬

    • @toneotoneo
      @toneotoneo 14 дней назад

      I have an opportunity of an oldy sharpstar 65q ed at 300usd used what do you think?

  • @Astronurd
    @Astronurd 2 дня назад

    It's just only a tiny 55mm scope. These small lenses are much easier to correct to a higher standard.

  • @efx245precor3
    @efx245precor3 15 дней назад

    Focuser could be more EAF friendly.

  • @efx245precor3
    @efx245precor3 15 дней назад

    Oh I thought you said that was the sv555

  • @thimitri1
    @thimitri1 14 дней назад +1

    6:54 ... oops.. 🤭

  • @PujicMafia
    @PujicMafia 18 дней назад +1

    Disgusting! ❤ Great review, love your work on this channel Cuiv, thank you!!

  • @Alan-vk6bk
    @Alan-vk6bk 18 дней назад +1

    I think I'll start saving my pennies 😉

  • @brianhayward8240
    @brianhayward8240 17 дней назад

    When I first saw the thumbnail of the vid, I thought A55 was a 3 letter word.

  • @davidemancini7853
    @davidemancini7853 17 дней назад +1

    I have heard this word “ cheaper “ too many times with this product, in my opinion it is not! Many users will upgrade the focuser with the ZWO EAF and got to buy a guide scope too so this scope will cost you at least 500$ more vs the RedCat come with a proper focuser and guide scope too. So in my opinion is not worthed buy this product just to have perfect round stars LOL considering we have many software that solve that problem……

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  17 дней назад +1

      Thanks as always Marvin!

    • @davidemancini7853
      @davidemancini7853 17 дней назад

      @ My name
      Is Davide😊or Marvin hold’s another meaning?

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  17 дней назад +1

      @@davidemancini7853 sorry about that! This was meant as a reply to another comment, not sure what happened!

    • @davidemancini7853
      @davidemancini7853 17 дней назад

      @ ahahaah not a problem👍

  • @sianikolaou5440
    @sianikolaou5440 17 дней назад +1

    The only negative is that you have killed the chance I will ever buy a RedCat!

  • @TheCongratulationsChannel
    @TheCongratulationsChannel 13 дней назад

    This 'telescope' looks like a camera lense - especially the lense cap. Looks like I can stay with my Canon EF then.

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  13 дней назад

      Lenses are telescopes and vice versa :) I've never seen an AF lens as good on a star field as this particular refractor, even my 300mm f2.8 closed to F4 wasn't as good! But yeah for many people AF lenses is all they need!

  • @vmir88
    @vmir88 18 дней назад

    Leet

  • @fenice319
    @fenice319 18 дней назад +1

    the one downside is that I can't afford it T_T

  • @darthdadious6142
    @darthdadious6142 18 дней назад +2

    Hmmm, complaining that there is nothing to complain about.... You know, we the consumer are looking for things that you have nothing to complain about...

    • @CuivTheLazyGeek
      @CuivTheLazyGeek  17 дней назад

      Hahaha but I'm French, it is my solemn duty to complain about stuff!

    • @darthdadious6142
      @darthdadious6142 17 дней назад

      @CuivTheLazyGeek keep up the good work. I love your videos

  • @mandtgrant
    @mandtgrant 17 дней назад +1

    I am very disappointed in Cuiv. He usually takes pains to be accurate and thorough, but in this case I feel let down. The Redcat lens cap cat is NOT, in fact, smiling. How the mighty have fallen