Lessons Learned

Why Meade

Submitted by Jim Eaton - Jul 19th, 2005
Learned: 2005

Once you have decided the telescope type/style that will best meet your observation needs, the next step will be selecting a telescope manufacture/brand. There is no one definitive answer. It can be compared to a Ford and GM owner having a debate over which person’s car is best. It becomes even harder because we all know either will get you from point A to point B. There are three areas that I found to be helpful in making my decision to stick with Meade and they are Quality, Value, and Service. Through experience and web research it became clear that Meade has been on top for a very long time. They offer scopes in all price ranges and styles with consistent high quality product in all categories. The next debate you will encounter is the age old question about “Optics Quality”. The lens and mirror quality are the heart of any good telescope. Without high quality optics the rest of the scope’s features are just window dressing. I have found Meade’s standard optics comparable to many other manufactures “high quality” options and Meade’s UTCH (Ultra-High Transmission Coatings) option is what others brands try to achieve. Meade’s electronic controls, GOTO features, and software are easy to use and again, I believe set the standard. Meade’s customer service associates exceed my expectations. They are courteous, knowledgeable and dedicated to providing product information. They also provide solid solutions to all your service needs. They were very helpful in weeding through the multitude of options during my selection process. So the questions still remains, why choose Meade?
1. I have found that the people who already own a Meade instrument will not trade them for anything else.
2. There is a great deal of pride among those who own them
3. They are by far the best quality for the value.
4. The proof is in the seeing and if your telescope is Meade, YOU’RE SEEING the best Sights Above.

Note: Manufactures tend to produce products that work best with accessories they offer. I too support this theory and choose to purchase many accessories, eyepieces, Barlow lens and filters from Meade. (Site Equipment List)

While the above is just my opinion based on my experiences, if you serf the web, you will find I am not alone and in very good company with others that support Meade products.

Note: If I were to make a suggestion to Meade to improve their product it would be to add an item to their telescopes shipping packing lists, "A whole lot of PRIDE" because that's what you get!

Copyright © 2005 James Eaton --- Site email address is sightsabove@sightsabove.com | Gallery By Gavin Vincent Web Design

Up Photo Gallery Telescope_Equipment Learning & Help Our_Observatory Lunar 100 Site Awards Astronomy-Crossword Site Information Links & News