Re: ATM Eyepieces

["Albert Highe" <ahighe@ix.netcom.com>]

>
> 1.  Is there a dollar amount that guarantees eyepiece perfection?
>
> 2. Is there a dollar amount that guarantees an inferior eyepiece?
>

Ask yourself the same questions about automobiles or any other product and
you'll have your answers. Higher cost generally implies that more materials
and labor went into the production and marketing of the product. There can
be lemons among even high-priced eyepieces and gems among low-cost ones. You
may not want or need the features of higher-priced models such as extreme
eye relief and ultrawide field. You may not care that the optician is German
or Chinese. There is a big difference in labor costs. On-axis performance of
low cost eyepieces often exceeds the performance of higher-priced, exotic
multi-element eyepieces. As with cars, shop around, understand the features
that are important to you, and test drive them at star parties. You'll find
most brands in the hands of fellow amateurs.

Albert