Vixen SX (Sphinx)

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Brand and Model:Vixen SX (Sphinx)
Price ($USD):1380
Type:Equatorial
Attributes:checkedMotorized un-checkedPEC checkedGoto
Electric Power:12V
Weight (lbs.):15
Description:Vixen's next generation replacement for its venerable GP-series mounts. SX (commonly known as Sphinx) is a compact, portable motorized GOTO mount that weighs about 15 lbs and can hold a load up to 22 lbs. It features a smart-looking design with the unique Starbook controller, user-friendly software, high precision GOTO pointing/
tracking utilizing 180-tooth worm gears and quality material and craftsmanship throughout. The included polarscope is a new design with enhanced accuracy and ease of use. The whole package (tripod extra) is now on sale for USD$1380 (special direct price in Japan), which is a lot of mount for the money!

Vote Highlights Vote
Vixen SX (Sphinx)
I puchased this mount in 2004, and must say I have been very satisfied with it in all respects.

If I have any complaints at all the upgrading of the mount is slow in progress over the past 2 years, as all users are still waiting for PEC.

Also in general the registered star numbers in the starbook (about 40?) are insufficient for my needs. However for a small scope without much weight demands (say 5-6 kg) and wideangle CCD/DSLR work and using whole sky visibility it is ideal.

I have no complaints at all and have had digital photos using the Vixen SX published by astronomy mags.

It can accurately follow my ccd deep sky and planetary targets for up to 4 minutes when properly aligned, and for visual use it will happily will track all night (with a meridien flip)..

The mount is good value for money compared to others and is a breeze to set up and use making it a real pleasure. Highly reccomensed

My only wish is that Vixen Japan would keep users in the picture as to what their future plans are and when, otherwise I would give it a 10 all round.

Overall Rating: 10
Performance:10 Ease of Use:9 Value:9
Weight: 5 (Veritable Vote)
Date:
By:
Link to this vote: http://www.excelsis.com/1.0/displayvote.php?voteid=544629

Vixen SX (Sphinx)
I have owned this Mount since 2005. I use it with my TV102 and Meade LX200 8" SCT. I have imaged with it using PhD to autoguide with a crossover LAN cable and an ASUS Net Book, using a DSI on an OAG and OllympusE 510. I find it light but solid, easy to use and engaging! IT is an excellent mount.
Jonathan, NY

Overall Rating: 10
Performance:10 Ease of Use:10 Value:10
Weight: 1 (Unreliable Vote)
Date:
By:
Link to this vote: http://www.excelsis.com/1.0/displayvote.php?voteid=594437

Vixen SX (Sphinx)
Software needsan upgrade to enable PEC.

Overall Rating: 9
Performance:9 Ease of Use:10 Value:10
Weight: 1 (Unreliable Vote)
Date:
By:
Link to this vote: http://www.excelsis.com/1.0/displayvote.php?voteid=491398

Vixen SX (Sphinx)
I own this mount for about 6 months, The new firmware is marvelously done as it brings all the features missing into the pervious ones.
- Monut quality is impressive
- I was able yesterday to follow a star for 3 hours including meridian flip without any problem
- I took pictures of the hors head nebula of about 4 minuts without any big move
- I now own the licence for autoguiding and it works great
- Starbook is now smooth and very fast response

- Nothing to say but "why is it so expensive in France..."

Best Regards, clear skies

Overall Rating: 9
Performance:10 Ease of Use:8 Value:9
Weight: 1 (Unreliable Vote)
Date:
By:
Link to this vote: http://www.excelsis.com/1.0/displayvote.php?voteid=395000

Vixen SX (Sphinx)
Overall mechanical quality is very high. Starbook controller needs some getting used to, but is easy to use once you've tried it a few times. The star chart display is nice, but lacks some features (such as displaying common star names). The software features of the Starbook are a bit disappointing. No PEC, no autoguiding (yet), lots of other features commonly found in Go-to systems seem to be missing. Fortunately the firmware can be upgraded. Performs its basic functions well. Go-to is accurate and tracking is smooth.

Overall Rating: 8
Performance:9 Ease of Use:8 Value:7
Weight: 1 (Unreliable Vote)
Date:
By:
Link to this vote: http://www.excelsis.com/1.0/displayvote.php?voteid=376939

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