For novices, yes, probably...for old hands, this can be a surprisingly nice
little scope. Think "half a pair of 60mm binocs on a goto mount." I've been
enjoying this EXTREMELY silly little scope for several years now. I was
amazed
at the _sweet_ widefield views it produced at Prude last time I was at TSP.
It's all I use as a travel scope now.


I think the optics on the ETX-60's and 70s have been quite variable. I believe
you have said that you could split the double-double with your ETX-60.

My ETX-70 fit Gary's description, disappointing, splitting Castor was the best
it could ever do. It did provide decent widefield views but my cheapie Clone
ST-80 came along and was a significant step up optically.

Given your preferences, I would think a C-5 on an alt-az mount with focal
reducer would be your choice as a travel scope. Not quite the wide field views
but still capable of 25X with a focal reducer, takes up less space too.

jon