With its performance and quality optics along with ease of setup and portability, the StarMax 127mm is ideal for the intermediate astronomer. Add the optional EQ-3M single and dual-axis electronic drives for hands-free tracking.
The best telescope is the one that gets used, and this is a telescope that I will use often because it is so quick and easy to set up. It appears to be very well made, with excellent optics (star test looked great). Jupiter was impressive even when verylow in the sky. The only minuses: an inadequate finder scope (which I have already upgraded), and some rather confusing directions (which I really didn't need). I also recommend the optional EQ-3M Single-Axis Electronic Drive. Overall rating: 4.5 stars (which I rounded up to 5).