Yet another MM2 vs IS request for advice please... (1 Viewer)

Hi all...

I am in the market for an inexpensive, small scope, and like many others am trying to decide between an MM2 or an IS60 - either of which I would hope to couple with an HDF eyepiece.

I have a couple of questions that anyone with experience could help me with...

1 - Is the MM2 ED worth the £90.00 more than the standard MM2? In fact, at £199.00 (Sherwoods), I would struggle on my budget to get the HDF eyepiece for the ED version, but could afford it with standard model.

So...ED with standard eyepiece or non-ED with an HDF?

2 - Sherwoods have the IS60 for just £90.00 at the moment. I realise its marginally heavier and slightly longer than the MM2, but seems terrific value.

In either case I would probably choose the 24xWW (MM2) / 23xWW (IS60) HDF eyepiece.

Any comments greatly appreciated.

Cheers

I can't answer your questions as such, but as there haven't been other replies so far -

I use an IS50 with an HDF 40809 eyepiece (x20 mag on mine, x23 on the IS60) and have been very pleased with the results. I don't think you'd be disappointed with the IS60 option you mention.

Thanks for your response.

Anyone else...?

Hi I bought a MM2 direct from Opticron a couple of weeks ago for a xmas present. I questioned the facxt that it is not waterproof but was told that there will be a new waterproof IS50 out in the new year if i wanted to wait. As it was a xmas present i couldn't. My wife seams happy with the MM2 but i am not sure how much abuse it will take. I know you can buy a stay-on-case or the grippa strap but i am not convinced. I payed £300 with free delivery for an MM2 ( Non ED) with standard 25x lens and a pair of Discovery WP PC 10x42 Bins. They also said if i wasn't happy i could return them for a full refund. Hope that helps
Ian

I've used a standard MM2 with the zoom 15-40 lens for about a year and found it wanting, especially at higher magnification. I don't know how much better the ED version is, or the HDF lenses, but try them and if you're happy, go for it.

I've now got a Nikon ED50 with zoom MCII lens which cost a bit more but I'm much happier with it than I was with the MM2.

I have the IS60 with the Pro Zoom. I'm very pleased - as long as you don't use too high a magnification. It is brighter than the MM2 and a bit more weatherproof. I would definitely recommend it over the MM2 unless you actualy require the extra portability.

Paul