I bought this scope somewhat on impulse, after seeing it on sale. I'm saving up for an "alpha" spotter but need something in the meantime, and SVBony has a reputation in the astronomy community for high-value accessories. With an Amazon coupon reducing the net price below US$200, and the easy return policy, I figured this spotter was worth a try.
I'm very impressed! Chromatic aberration is close to zero visually, even on the Moon at max magnification. The dual focus mechanism felt stiff at first but after a little exercise has become quite smooth, yet with zero backlash. The construction seems solid and the finish, while not as posh as on the alpha scopes, is quite refined.
I chose this model in part because it accepts standard 1.25" barrel eyepieces, of which I have a good number. I doubted that an inexpensive zoom eyepiece could be satisfactory and expected to set it aside. But the included 7-21mm zoom is quite impressive! Contrast and central sharpness are acceptable or better at all magnifications, and there is very little scattered light - even on the Moon at night, a tough test for glare. Color rendition is accurate, and eye relief is very good. I wish the adjustment on the twist-down eyecup held better, and that the field was wider. But the ~42 degree apparent field at the zoom's wide end is better than what's offered in many other scopes, even some more expensive ones. Overall this SVBony zoom eyepiece - I believe it's the one they sell separately as model SV191 - has impressed me enough that I just ordered their 3-8mm zoom too, to try on my astro telescope.
I haven't owned the SV406P long enough to speak to its durability. I believe the warranty is just one year, but I've had good communication with SVBony since making the purchase and get the sense that if I have a problem within that year they would be responsive. Overall I'm very happy with this purchase.
I'm very impressed! Chromatic aberration is close to zero visually, even on the Moon at max magnification. The dual focus mechanism felt stiff at first but after a little exercise has become quite smooth, yet with zero backlash. The construction seems solid and the finish, while not as posh as on the alpha scopes, is quite refined.
I chose this model in part because it accepts standard 1.25" barrel eyepieces, of which I have a good number. I doubted that an inexpensive zoom eyepiece could be satisfactory and expected to set it aside. But the included 7-21mm zoom is quite impressive! Contrast and central sharpness are acceptable or better at all magnifications, and there is very little scattered light - even on the Moon at night, a tough test for glare. Color rendition is accurate, and eye relief is very good. I wish the adjustment on the twist-down eyecup held better, and that the field was wider. But the ~42 degree apparent field at the zoom's wide end is better than what's offered in many other scopes, even some more expensive ones. Overall this SVBony zoom eyepiece - I believe it's the one they sell separately as model SV191 - has impressed me enough that I just ordered their 3-8mm zoom too, to try on my astro telescope.
I haven't owned the SV406P long enough to speak to its durability. I believe the warranty is just one year, but I've had good communication with SVBony since making the purchase and get the sense that if I have a problem within that year they would be responsive. Overall I'm very happy with this purchase.
