[APML]: Magazine Reviews

[charles@jon.cjfny.org]

The Astro-Photography Mailing List
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Hi:

I've saved most of the magazine reviews shown in S&T and Astronomy
magazines over the last fifteen years. The fact is that positive reviews
are given for the products of less prominent advertisers than Meade.
These products probably deserve the praise, and the support such a
review might offer. I do get the impression that with big-name
advertisers the magazine walks a very tight rope.

The best example was the side by side comparison of  Meade and Celestron
SCTs that appeared in S&T a few years ago. The verdict was split down
the middle, but most people felt that Meade got trashed in this article,
despite the fact that flaws were found for both product lines. I believe
that one of the initial Meade scopes obtained anonymously was a dud, and
S&T had the balls to mention this. I also believe that their honesty got
Meade to be more careful with their quality control. Perhaps more honest
reporting will get the manufacturers to stop trying to impose inferior
quality products on consumers. Meade cannot afford to have its
reputation trashed without making major changes to its product line.

The most interesting reviews are the ones that offer side by side
comparisons of  products from different manufacturers. For instance,
Astronomy compared the quality of 4 small refractors (TV Genesis, AP
Traveller, Celestron, etc.). The review seemed honest and extremely
thorough. A rating system was used for the optics and mounts. Great
stuff! Interestingly, I believe the Celestron won out in optics! Another
good review was the "Astrophysics Refractors: Big and Small" in
Astronomy Magazine. I don't think Astrophysics was advertising in the
magazine at the time.

The problem, as far as I am concerned, is the lack of quality reviewers.
Whether there is a conscious strategy on the part of magazine editors to
commission those who may be more sensitive to their advertising
concerns, is a question open for debate...

Charles