Thanks for nice video. I already own it. One correction: the guide sensor is independently focusable using the knurled knob on top of the camera housing. It worked great to focus the guide sensor after I focused the main sensor with EAF. I was using 7nm dual narrowband filter and got great guiding all night between 0.25 and 0.5 total rms. This was my first light imaging with this camera. Awesome.
Oh mate that's awesome! I thought it was a desiccant recharge port, haha! Thanks so much for the info there, and glad to hear you've had a successful first light 👍👍
Have a question for you and lukamatico on this. I love the idea but my concern is with the guiding. On an AM5 I'm currently doing .5s with the gain up on my 220 to 300. For NB I use the Antila 5nm duobands. Main scope is a FRA400 but I do also have an Askar 103. Next in line with probably be the FRA300 because I do love the ease of use on these new scopes. But does a 5s length affect guiding much on the harmonic drives?
@ I found best guiding at 0.5s to 2s range, but frankly, not much difference even at 4s. I never tried longer than 4s. One issue is if you use mini guide scope with only 120mm focal length, then ASI guiding will only make corrections on 0.1pixel errors, which translates into something over 0.5 arc sec. So a longer focal length for guiding can give better results. I’m using 180mm for scope and guiding (via ASI2600MC Air), and my guiding got improved due to longer focal length. Lesson is check the math on pixel scale for guiding with your guide focal length knowing that there will be no correction if error is less than 0.1pixel. If that translates to an arc sec, then you will definitely get +/-1 arc sec, which is 2 arc sec star elongation. That’s the way to think about it. Going past 5sec guiding exposure, I have heard that harmonic drives prefer faster. But I have not checked this. I tend to like 1s guiding and correction speed f 0.25 sidereal rate.
@@lukomatico Buddy not a great product. I am now selling mine as a second hand in the market after short usage. The worst and most frustrating part was to deal with their tech team who will act somewhere between weird to absurd in my personal experience. This is my short review probably less of the camera but more of their tech team. I wish i had never dealt with them.
@@lukomatico The guiding performance with narrowband filters is disappointing, and the ASIAir operates very slowly, often taking up to five seconds to transfer an image to my iPad. Although their tech team has acknowledged these issues, they refuse to exchange the product for a comparable model (like the 2600MC Pro) or to accept a return, consistently labeling my request as simply a "change of mind." They’ve also emphasized how well the product works with the Takahashi 106 telescope, which retails for $7,330 on Takahashi's U.S. site, and a 4.5nm filter, implying that my setup might be the issue. They also advised that I should have done more research before purchasing, citing UA-cam videos and beta testing results that they say I should have reviewed. They even shared a link with me to a non-ZWO run UA-cam channel. The company has disclaimed responsibility for providing accurate information to customers, despite beta testing that reportedly highlighted the narrowband filter issues and ASIAir's slow performance. They didn’t find it necessary to share this with their potential customers through the product page. Once the product is shipped, they consider it solely the customer’s responsibility. At this point, my frustration is more with the tech team’s handling of the issue than with the product itself. If there’s a way to share my communications with you by email, I am happy to share with you. This is an actual text from my email to them: "I must express some concern regarding my recent purchases and potential future warranty claims. If I ever need to make a warranty claim, I am apprehensive about how it would be handled, especially since your tech team is hesitant to stand by a product that remains practically unused and has barely been outside its original packaging. Regrettably, I am finding this experience with ZWO’s customer service quite disappointing."
@ The guiding performance with narrowband filters has been disappointing, and the ASIAir runs very slowly, often taking up to five seconds to transfer images to my iPad. While the tech team has acknowledged these issues, they have refused to exchange the product for a comparable model (such as the 2600MC Pro) or to accept a return, consistently labeling my request as a mere “change of mind.” They keep stressing how well the product works with the Takahashi 106 telescope, which retails for $7,330 on Takahashi’s U.S. site, suggesting that my setup may be the problem. They also indicated that I should have done more research before purchasing, referencing UA-cam videos and beta testing results that they claim I should have reviewed. They even sent a link to a UA-cam channel not affiliated with ZWO. The company has disclaimed responsibility for providing accurate product information to customers, despite beta testing that reportedly highlighted the narrowband filter issues and ASIAir’s slow performance - information they chose not to share. Once a product ships, they consider any issues entirely the customer’s responsibility. At this point, my frustration is more with how the tech team has handled the situation than with the product itself. Happy to share my emails with you. Also the unit is in the market for a sale as a used unit; I won’t mind shipping it to you at a lower price than the ZWO price. Thanks PS: Your mate, Astrobackyard - who also introduced me to your channel, asked me the same question. I gave him the same response.
We'll bear that in mind mate haha, I think that might be one too many Steves in the family at that point though, they already surround us!! :-D Clear skies!
Excellent Luke. I generally prefer going down the PC/NINA route for my rigs but I am starting to warm to the ASIair. For my new rigs built around the Samyang 135mm F2 lens the ASIair does actually make a lot of sense so am giving it real consideration. Wishing you and Chloe all the best for the arrival of little Luke.
Hey Pete mate!! - Thank you ever so much for your kind words and all of your support, it's greatly appreciated! - we're very much looking forwards to his arrival! :-) RE: the Air, - I think it does make sense for something so portable, certainly!! (but I'm a major fan of the air system haha!)
Great review Luke. Nearly bought one of these but ended up getting a new mono camera instead, but I'm still interested even if it is still a bit of a pricey item, but is it? Buy a separate IMX571 camera, 220 camera, OAG and ASIair and I think you'll find it is actually value for money. I responded to somebody yesterday who was saying they are disappointed that ZWO haven't brought out an 80mm SeeStar telling them that in fact they have, it is the rig that you are using in this video. I have to say the more I see reviews on this camera the more I'm attracted to it. I use an ASIair mini and I also use an Eagle and a Stellarmate Pro and the ASIair is by far the easiest to use. The only reason I bought the Stellarmate was some of my cameras are made by Altair Astro so don't work with the ASIair . I tend to have all of my rigs built up ready for use so all I have to do is clip them to the mount and plug in the power supply, polar align and I am ready to go. I really like the ASIair Polar Alignment tool, it takes no time at all. I've heard all the negatives about this camera like if one bit fails then you lose everything but my take is because of the lack of wiring and plug in connections etc, failures are less likely, no dangling cables to catch on things to start with. Like I said earlier, imo this camera is a step up from the SeeStar, used with a suitable OTA, EAF.and mount you effectively have a smart telescope and as you say like with a DSLR you can add a wide range of scopes and lenses to give versatility as and when you have the funds to do so. Anyway best wishes to yourself, Chloe and the new arrival.
So sorry about the late reply to this mate, some comments went missing for days! Thank you for taking the time to send over such a well thought out message - I'm in agreement with what you've said!! :-) great way to look at it!
Hi Luko. Completely agree about your dad remark. This stuff is incredibly well placed to bring beginners in without setting significant boundaries that limit what they can do in fiuture. The only one really is that you're stuck with ZWO gear. That's not necessarily a bad thing, unless you are a competitor, or someone who becomes dissatisfied with pricing quality contol or support. I bought-in early with a TC40, AM3, PE160, FF80 ASIair Mini ASI 2600MC DUO EAF EFW and Pegasus PPBMicro as my second rig. I was aiming for an optimally portable rig to compliment my big APO. I even prototyped a power solution using 24 x LiFePO cells and a BMS that fit inside the tripod legs. The BMS I chose (that fits in the restricted space) has a difficult charging voltage that I can't easily reproduce, and I only built one leg's worth (1/3 capacity) So I have proof of concept, but nothing operational. As this project has stalled I that hope someone will pick up on this and exploit the idea commercially. ZWO are following a routemap, but for business confidentiality they aren't sharing the details in public. But given their thirst for innovation, I hope one day soon that we will be able to buy new variants from the factory that reflect our portability requirements, without compromising our high-end goals. A TC40'packed', an AM3'N' and a ASI2600'MM' Air variants would do that. A smart lens cap with a built-in Aurora film lightframe (or even a smart dewcap 'EDC', with open, close, light, dark controls, and built in heaters and dewpoint sensors) would finish off this concept beautifully. Soft luggage that lets you pack (unit1 = FF80 EDC EAF EFW 2600MM Air) in one bag and (unit2 = mount pier extension and tripod) in another would be icing on the cake. Sling a bag over each shoulder and you'd be good to go.
Hi there mate!! Thank you so much for such an excellent comment, those are some really cracking ideas - I particularly love the tc40 tripod power idea!! :-) thanks again, this was great to read 👍👍
Thanks for the review on this. I've been waffling between the 2600MC and the all in one. Two issues were the filter issue and the all in one aspect. Still a bit concerned naturally about the all in one but if I can increase the gain on the guidescope along with the time sounds like it will work
Hi Luke! I really like that setup! I think I would even go for the AM3 to make it even more portable! I am dreaming of throwing this thing in the back seat of my car and heading out to a dark site 🙂 Best wishes to you and Chloe with the arrival you your new child 🙂
Hey mate, thank you for another exceptional and informative presentation! You are such a lovely guy and very gracious. Keep smiling and don't change a bit. Many blessings and warm wishes from Newcastle in Australia. Take care, Annika 🔮🍹
@lukomatico This world is extraordinary! I just love the positive vibes and genuine personalities I stumble across on UA-cam. If you have not come across an Astro Photographer called "Ollie's Space", you must check him out - he occasionally adds his exquisite piano pieces to his videos. A super talented boy indeed. He is located in Victoria (Australia). I also subscribed to the channel "Astro With Chris". His presentations are unbelievable. I don't know how he maintains such a high level of enthusiasm. I thought he was an Aussie but he informed me he is located in UK. Just understand that people all over the world really do appreciate you guys. Some are greatly talented and it brings immense enjoyment to lives of your audience. We will never meet but thanks to our passion we share for the night sky, we are all connected and bare gifts of eternal light. Enjoy your journey blessed one. Annika 🔮🍹😊
Luke I think this new 2600 air is incredible! To be able to cram sooo much tech into such a small device and it work seamlessly is simply amazing! I will eventually buy one, I'm still saving up for one, but also saving up for a big 11" SCT as well so it's taking a while! LOL. Thanks as always for the great content Luke, just like ZWO products, your channel always delivers! ( LOL sorry if that sounded a bit cheesy! 🤦♀😂 ) Clear Skies from Wes, Liverpool.
Nice review. I can envisage a potential guiding problem with narrow band imaging through long focal length telescopes and harmonic drive mounts which need 1 sec or faster guiding corrections
Hi Luke.Another good review, thank you. I'm in the throws of buying a second wide field rig and consideriong the asi air. This new rig will be used in the Dalby Forest area. I use a bog standard car battery for my power source. I think the only down side that would affect me is the 12 volt minimum. You said you changed your power source, can ask what you are using now to maintain that seemingly critical 12 volts. Thanks again.
Hey there mate! - so sorry about the late reply, I now use just a powerbank with regulated DC output voltage, so it won't dip in cold weather etc :-) works a treat!
I'm happy with my 2600MC-Duo/ASIair+ combo (along with FF80/AM5) and wouldn't hesitate to get this instead. Saves the power and USB connections between the two and having to find a place for the ASIair. I do wish the USB ports were USB3.0 instead of 2.0. I would think it would impact using external storage. I use a 250GB USB3 SSD/flash drive to more easily move the data to my home PC while the ASIair stays in the telescope case out in the garage. My Duo and ASIair+ are also sensitive to low voltage. Needs to stay above 12v or gets unhappy. Having the duo doesn't stop you from using a separate guide camera/scope if the occasion calls for it. So far I've found no need for a separate guide scope.
How was the wi-fi? Since you didn’t mention it, I’m assuming it worked fine for you. I’ve had issues with the wi-fi on ASIAir’s, pro and plus, that I was only able to resolve using a travel router and an Ethernet connection to the ASIAir. Since the 2600Air doesn’t have an Ethernet port that causes me some concern.
Great question!! It's been really good on its own, though lately I use it in station mode connected to my home/observatory WiFi - this allows me to roam wherever I like around the garden/observatory and stay connected 👍
Thanks Luke for an honest review of the camera. It is a winning combination to be sure. I will be more inclined to purchase this if they ever open up to non-ZWO hardware.
I've got the 2600mc duo (the same thing) and an asiair plus joined to my home wifi. I don't like the vendor lock-in, but it's still pretty slick. I do sometimes find it hard to get a guide star at >1600mm focal lengths with bortle 7 skies, or with a full moon. But guiding does just work for the most part. I would really like being able to change the ROI for the asiair's focus preview, because there's not always bright stars dead center, and you can't align until you've focused. The focus algorithm gives up if you aren't close enough to focus in the first place (it won't do a full range sweep), so there's a lot of initial focus iteration when switching from one rig to another. For giggles, I tried it once attached to a cheap manually-focused Maksutov 105mm telescope, but found that there's only about 1/6th of a rotation on the focus knob where stars are actually visible (much less than that for proper focus), compared to about 6 full rotations where they aren't visible at all. Not having a permanent observatory, having something I can set up relatively quickly (and take down the next morning) is key. A lot of nights, I find I just plop out one or both of my seestar S50s because the seeing isn't great anyway, or there's just an hour or two of clear sky, and I can just poke around looking at things without spending more than 3 or so minutes of setup time and without sitting outside with the biting bugs or freezing temperatures.
Good question mate, I'd guess it would be sent in for repair! Out of interest - Did the brick occur on one of the older models that used an SD card for the operating system by chance? That was apparently the most likely point of failure
While I can see the benefit using the colour camera version, lots of pluses for sure, the mono camera version might well be problematic for a couple of reasons. First it looks like you’d need two inch filters in the filter wheel to illuminate the guide chip, anything smaller might mask the chip. Another issue would be guiding behind narrowband filters, and the difficulty that brings in finding guide stars.
I have the 2600MC Pro and would have bought the Duo if it had been out. I also have the ASIAir+ and like the combo. I don’t think I would go with the 2600 Air as I use three cameras and like being able to swap them and not lose control or guiding functions.
I would like to get this. Already have the duo. Love this camera and no problems shooting at f10 thru narrowband. At worst case, id reframe my object if im in a skimpy part of the sky concerning stars. Would love to remove even more equipment/wires.
I may have missed this but is it possible to use this like the ASI2600MC Duo (i.e. choose to bypass ASIAir using my own PC when I want to, and at other times choose to use the built-in ASIAir)?
Thanks for the review. I like the concept but I might just wait for the mono version before purchasing. Still not quite sold on tying myself to the ASI environment as I'm currently using NINA on a mini PC. I've got a wireless Flat Panel l that uses an ASCOM driver and I'm not sure the ASI could control it.
Hey mate! You use it standalone with the inbuilt asiair system, that'll control everything and take the place of the PC in traditional astro imaging rigs :-)
My camera 2600asiair fails to maintain the wifi signal on for more than 20 minutes. It disconnects and does not reconnect randomly at least once per hour. I have to restart and redo the connection. I got it last month.
Could you help me with a doubt? When you connect the camera via usb to a PC it works on PC even being also connected to asiair internally? I was wondering if I connect to a PC if I would be able to shoot from PC or asiair equally. Or once you connect to a PC does the camera disappear from asiair?
Thx for the review! That WILL be my first dedicated astrocamera 😅! Now I just have to plan when and how to rob a bank 😩🫣… jokes aside, I do have to save up a year or two for that price-tag. But I am oldfashioned, save first, then spend and only what you have 🤷🏻♂️😊
@lukomatico so askar 80phq or 107phq with l-extreme filter could work? Is the guide sensor used at 600-750mm focal length an advantage or disadvantage compared to a separated 50mm focal length guide scope?
Hello. Is that a William Optics Tri-pier that you are using or something else? Have you covered this pier before in a previous video? If it is a WO tri-pier, which adapter plate are you using? Thanks.
@@Astro-Suburbia hey there mate! It's basically a rebrand of the tri-pier yeah! A few companies sell them - I got mine used, but my AM5 is just bolted to the top using I'm assuming the default plate for this 👍
Your video’s are great like always but I will stick with N.I.N.A and my Player One Ares C. I do use the ASI 120mm-s for guiding. my power drops to 11.7 when everything is running cooling 3 dew heaters guiding and it keeps working great. 👍
It's a cool gadget sure, but if one component break, you're left with nothing. On top of that, you cannot as a workaround (while you wait for a new AA, guidecam or whatever), use something else to do your imaging. As far as I understood it, with one of these, you are 100% dependent on it working. That vulnerability is one reason I try to avoid all-in-one products. When it works, I have no problems imagining it works well, but if something breaks; you're kinda hosed. Like you said; it's not for everyone. I like to be in control, and I like to have options. The MC Air does not offer that, so it is not for me.
I avoided this camera and sensor and saved like over £500 by getting Altair Astros 26C. ZWO's initial denial of the sensor bleed issues made me steer well clear of them on moral terms but in the UK at least they remain un competitively priced against Altairs cameras, which use the same sensors but are much cheaper. This all in one seems like a good idea but is way overpriced. Another good video as ever though Luke.
You say 12v or above? The camera is rated at 12v. Couldnt going higher cause damage? I ask because i have the camera, and ita buggy as hell. Should i try 13v?
Hey mate! I've ran my asiairs at 13.8v before with no issues, but haven't tested this camera personally that high - if you're having issues with frames corrupted or not downloading then it was 100% solved with a better power supply for me, as with any power issue the fit of the DC jack itself can matter too, do problems occur under large slews or meridian flips etc? Hope that helps!
Awesome video, as usual! Not exactly my cup of tea, because I don't want to be locked into that ecosystem, but it does seem to be an excellent piece of gear!
If I was getting into AP right now, this would be an extremely compelling piece of kit. Yes, you're locked into the ZWO ecosystem, but is that really a downside to someone completely new to the game? I would argue that it isn't. You can put together a very capable rig using all ZWO products. The AM5N is a great mount for quite a large variety of optics. ZWO sells rebranded SharpStar/Askar scopes from 65 to 130mm aperture. All of them would pair up well with the 2600MC Air. Add an EAF and you're ready to go with a package that's quite portable and easy to get setup and running.
Looks good mate but still not a fan of being locked into one system so still holding out for the Astro station by Touptek, hope you're all well? Clear skies
Good review. Cool concept. Not for me though. For some things, a closed ecosystem is what is called for. In support of a necessity or obligation for example where cordoned off reliability is a comfort. For me, astrophotography is a multi-faceted deeply engaging hobby. Engineering a complex solution and troubleshooting and tuning it to work optimally is what draws me TO the hobby, not away from it. Unlike some, I don’t fear this sort of tech. But, I don’t consider it the same hobby either. It’s paint by numbers for AP.
I'm not sure if I'm the only one but this review feel suspiciously positive, especially coming from someone who wanted to get away from that locked in ecosystem of ZWO in the past. Also you did mention that you are locked in into the ecosystem regarding the camera and guidecamera but the focuser, filterwheel etc, that's also a big point to consider which isn't really mentioned that well, if at all. Also all the negativ points are instantly followed up with a positive without really going in depth on those negative ones. I love your videos luke, don't get me wrong but this review feels worringly biased out of some reason expecially comparison to the other great reviews you've done.
Hey mate - I don't really like you inferring that I'm being deceptive, I just like the product, that's all there is to it! It's been really helpful lately as I've been so busy, which has perhaps made me appreciate it even more, too. As I explain at the start, and again at the end, I'm not making a penny from this, I'm actually down cash at this point.
Sir, I am a new subscriber - would you please consider creating/making a new video on 'some' of the best cameras that I can use for VIDEO astronomy - I prefer colour and CCD, but I am receptive to options. Thank you...
lol, also... If I get a 2600MC Air. I'll have a whole other guide set up and cam. I guess my only option is to buy another scope XD Realistically, I'd like to get something that would be good for planetary and lunar. need to research this! Hope everyone over there is doing well. Congrats again dad!
Thanks for nice video. I already own it. One correction: the guide sensor is independently focusable using the knurled knob on top of the camera housing. It worked great to focus the guide sensor after I focused the main sensor with EAF. I was using 7nm dual narrowband filter and got great guiding all night between 0.25 and 0.5 total rms. This was my first light imaging with this camera. Awesome.
Oh mate that's awesome! I thought it was a desiccant recharge port, haha! Thanks so much for the info there, and glad to hear you've had a successful first light 👍👍
Going to pin this for visibility - thanks again!
@@lukomatico I adjusted my DUO guide focus on the first night and have never touched it since. Slightly out of focus is good for guiding isn't it 😬.
Have a question for you and lukamatico on this. I love the idea but my concern is with the guiding. On an AM5 I'm currently doing .5s with the gain up on my 220 to 300. For NB I use the Antila 5nm duobands. Main scope is a FRA400 but I do also have an Askar 103. Next in line with probably be the FRA300 because I do love the ease of use on these new scopes. But does a 5s length affect guiding much on the harmonic drives?
@ I found best guiding at 0.5s to 2s range, but frankly, not much difference even at 4s. I never tried longer than 4s. One issue is if you use mini guide scope with only 120mm focal length, then ASI guiding will only make corrections on 0.1pixel errors, which translates into something over 0.5 arc sec. So a longer focal length for guiding can give better results. I’m using 180mm for scope and guiding (via ASI2600MC Air), and my guiding got improved due to longer focal length. Lesson is check the math on pixel scale for guiding with your guide focal length knowing that there will be no correction if error is less than 0.1pixel. If that translates to an arc sec, then you will definitely get +/-1 arc sec, which is 2 arc sec star elongation. That’s the way to think about it. Going past 5sec guiding exposure, I have heard that harmonic drives prefer faster. But I have not checked this. I tend to like 1s guiding and correction speed f 0.25 sidereal rate.
I am receiving mine next week! It is comforting to hear that the guiding is good with the filters.
Hope you enjoy it mate!! Congratulations! :-)
@@lukomatico Buddy not a great product. I am now selling mine as a second hand in the market after short usage. The worst and most frustrating part was to deal with their tech team who will act somewhere between weird to absurd in my personal experience. This is my short review probably less of the camera but more of their tech team. I wish i had never dealt with them.
@SAKinDXB aw crikey mate I'm sorry to hear that, what was the issue you had with the camera if you don't mind me asking?
@@lukomatico The guiding performance with narrowband filters is disappointing, and the ASIAir operates very slowly, often taking up to five seconds to transfer an image to my iPad. Although their tech team has acknowledged these issues, they refuse to exchange the product for a comparable model (like the 2600MC Pro) or to accept a return, consistently labeling my request as simply a "change of mind."
They’ve also emphasized how well the product works with the Takahashi 106 telescope, which retails for $7,330 on Takahashi's U.S. site, and a 4.5nm filter, implying that my setup might be the issue. They also advised that I should have done more research before purchasing, citing UA-cam videos and beta testing results that they say I should have reviewed. They even shared a link with me to a non-ZWO run UA-cam channel.
The company has disclaimed responsibility for providing accurate information to customers, despite beta testing that reportedly highlighted the narrowband filter issues and ASIAir's slow performance. They didn’t find it necessary to share this with their potential customers through the product page. Once the product is shipped, they consider it solely the customer’s responsibility.
At this point, my frustration is more with the tech team’s handling of the issue than with the product itself.
If there’s a way to share my communications with you by email, I am happy to share with you.
This is an actual text from my email to them:
"I must express some concern regarding my recent purchases and potential future warranty claims. If I ever need to make a warranty claim, I am apprehensive about how it would be handled, especially since your tech team is hesitant to stand by a product that remains practically unused and has barely been outside its original packaging.
Regrettably, I am finding this experience with ZWO’s customer service quite disappointing."
@ The guiding performance with narrowband filters has been disappointing, and the ASIAir runs very slowly, often taking up to five seconds to transfer images to my iPad. While the tech team has acknowledged these issues, they have refused to exchange the product for a comparable model (such as the 2600MC Pro) or to accept a return, consistently labeling my request as a mere “change of mind.”
They keep stressing how well the product works with the Takahashi 106 telescope, which retails for $7,330 on Takahashi’s U.S. site, suggesting that my setup may be the problem. They also indicated that I should have done more research before purchasing, referencing UA-cam videos and beta testing results that they claim I should have reviewed. They even sent a link to a UA-cam channel not affiliated with ZWO.
The company has disclaimed responsibility for providing accurate product information to customers, despite beta testing that reportedly highlighted the narrowband filter issues and ASIAir’s slow performance - information they chose not to share. Once a product ships, they consider any issues entirely the customer’s responsibility.
At this point, my frustration is more with how the tech team has handled the situation than with the product itself.
Happy to share my emails with you. Also the unit is in the market for a sale as a used unit; I won’t mind shipping it to you at a lower price than the ZWO price. Thanks
PS: Your mate, Astrobackyard - who also introduced me to your channel, asked me the same question. I gave him the same response.
Really useful video Luke, thanks and good luck with the arrival of your son
Cheers mate!! Appreciated :-)
Good luck with the baby. Hope all is healthy and well. I was pulling for the 13th my BD. But you can still name him Steve
We'll bear that in mind mate haha, I think that might be one too many Steves in the family at that point though, they already surround us!! :-D Clear skies!
Wishing you and Chloe all the best with the little lukester 🙏🏻✨✨
Thanks so much mate!!! :-D
Excellent Luke. I generally prefer going down the PC/NINA route for my rigs but I am starting to warm to the ASIair. For my new rigs built around the Samyang 135mm F2 lens the ASIair does actually make a lot of sense so am giving it real consideration. Wishing you and Chloe all the best for the arrival of little Luke.
Hey Pete mate!! - Thank you ever so much for your kind words and all of your support, it's greatly appreciated! - we're very much looking forwards to his arrival! :-)
RE: the Air, - I think it does make sense for something so portable, certainly!! (but I'm a major fan of the air system haha!)
Great review Luke. Nearly bought one of these but ended up getting a new mono camera instead, but I'm still interested even if it is still a bit of a pricey item, but is it? Buy a separate IMX571 camera, 220 camera, OAG and ASIair and I think you'll find it is actually value for money. I responded to somebody yesterday who was saying they are disappointed that ZWO haven't brought out an 80mm SeeStar telling them that in fact they have, it is the rig that you are using in this video. I have to say the more I see reviews on this camera the more I'm attracted to it. I use an ASIair mini and I also use an Eagle and a Stellarmate Pro and the ASIair is by far the easiest to use. The only reason I bought the Stellarmate was some of my cameras are made by Altair Astro so don't work with the ASIair .
I tend to have all of my rigs built up ready for use so all I have to do is clip them to the mount and plug in the power supply, polar align and I am ready to go. I really like the ASIair Polar Alignment tool, it takes no time at all. I've heard all the negatives about this camera like if one bit fails then you lose everything but my take is because of the lack of wiring and plug in connections etc, failures are less likely, no dangling cables to catch on things to start with. Like I said earlier, imo this camera is a step up from the SeeStar, used with a suitable OTA, EAF.and mount you effectively have a smart telescope and as you say like with a DSLR you can add a wide range of scopes and lenses to give versatility as and when you have the funds to do so. Anyway best wishes to yourself, Chloe and the new arrival.
So sorry about the late reply to this mate, some comments went missing for days!
Thank you for taking the time to send over such a well thought out message - I'm in agreement with what you've said!! :-) great way to look at it!
Hi Luko. Completely agree about your dad remark. This stuff is incredibly well placed to bring beginners in without setting significant boundaries that limit what they can do in fiuture. The only one really is that you're stuck with ZWO gear. That's not necessarily a bad thing, unless you are a competitor, or someone who becomes dissatisfied with pricing quality contol or support.
I bought-in early with a TC40, AM3, PE160, FF80 ASIair Mini ASI 2600MC DUO EAF EFW and Pegasus PPBMicro as my second rig. I was aiming for an optimally portable rig to compliment my big APO.
I even prototyped a power solution using 24 x LiFePO cells and a BMS that fit inside the tripod legs. The BMS I chose (that fits in the restricted space) has a difficult charging voltage that I can't easily reproduce, and I only built one leg's worth (1/3 capacity) So I have proof of concept, but nothing operational. As this project has stalled I that hope someone will pick up on this and exploit the idea commercially.
ZWO are following a routemap, but for business confidentiality they aren't sharing the details in public. But given their thirst for innovation, I hope one day soon that we will be able to buy new variants from the factory that reflect our portability requirements, without compromising our high-end goals. A TC40'packed', an AM3'N' and a ASI2600'MM' Air variants would do that. A smart lens cap with a built-in Aurora film lightframe (or even a smart dewcap 'EDC', with open, close, light, dark controls, and built in heaters and dewpoint sensors) would finish off this concept beautifully.
Soft luggage that lets you pack (unit1 = FF80 EDC EAF EFW 2600MM Air) in one bag and (unit2 = mount pier extension and tripod) in another would be icing on the cake. Sling a bag over each shoulder and you'd be good to go.
Hi there mate!! Thank you so much for such an excellent comment, those are some really cracking ideas - I particularly love the tc40 tripod power idea!! :-) thanks again, this was great to read 👍👍
Thanks for the review on this. I've been waffling between the 2600MC and the all in one. Two issues were the filter issue and the all in one aspect. Still a bit concerned naturally about the all in one but if I can increase the gain on the guidescope along with the time sounds like it will work
Hi Luke! I really like that setup! I think I would even go for the AM3 to make it even more portable! I am dreaming of throwing this thing in the back seat of my car and heading out to a dark site 🙂 Best wishes to you and Chloe with the arrival you your new child 🙂
Hey mate, thank you for another exceptional and informative presentation!
You are such a lovely guy and very gracious.
Keep smiling and don't change a bit.
Many blessings and warm wishes from Newcastle in Australia.
Take care,
Annika
🔮🍹
That's so kind of you to say, Annika!! :-D thank you so much mate, it really means a lot to have such warm support 🙏
All the very best!
Luke
@lukomatico This world is extraordinary! I just love the positive vibes and genuine personalities I stumble across on UA-cam. If you have not come across an Astro Photographer called "Ollie's Space", you must check him out - he occasionally adds his exquisite piano pieces to his videos. A super talented boy indeed. He is located in Victoria (Australia). I also subscribed to the channel "Astro With Chris". His presentations are unbelievable. I don't know how he maintains such a high level of enthusiasm. I thought he was an Aussie but he informed me he is located in UK.
Just understand that people all over the world really do appreciate you guys. Some are greatly talented and it brings immense enjoyment to lives of your audience. We will never meet but thanks to our passion we share for the night sky, we are all connected and bare gifts of eternal light.
Enjoy your journey blessed one.
Annika
🔮🍹😊
it’s crazy how far the hardware and software has come in 10 years. night and day
So true!! I can't believe how slick this is compared to my first setup with a laptop on a chair outside, haha! :-)
Luke I think this new 2600 air is incredible! To be able to cram sooo much tech into such a small device and it work seamlessly is simply amazing! I will eventually buy one, I'm still saving up for one, but also saving up for a big 11" SCT as well so it's taking a while! LOL.
Thanks as always for the great content Luke, just like ZWO products, your channel always delivers! ( LOL sorry if that sounded a bit cheesy! 🤦♀😂 )
Clear Skies from Wes, Liverpool.
Thanks ever so much Wes!! They certainly make good gear, haha!
Clear skies to you mate :-)
Nice review. I can envisage a potential guiding problem with narrow band imaging through long focal length telescopes and harmonic drive mounts which need 1 sec or faster guiding corrections
Hi Luke.Another good review, thank you.
I'm in the throws of buying a second wide field rig and consideriong the asi air. This new rig will be used in the Dalby Forest area. I use a bog standard car battery for my power source. I think the only down side that would affect me is the 12 volt minimum. You said you changed your power source, can ask what you are using now to maintain that seemingly critical 12 volts. Thanks again.
Hey there mate! - so sorry about the late reply, I now use just a powerbank with regulated DC output voltage, so it won't dip in cold weather etc :-) works a treat!
I'm happy with my 2600MC-Duo/ASIair+ combo (along with FF80/AM5) and wouldn't hesitate to get this instead. Saves the power and USB connections between the two and having to find a place for the ASIair. I do wish the USB ports were USB3.0 instead of 2.0. I would think it would impact using external storage. I use a 250GB USB3 SSD/flash drive to more easily move the data to my home PC while the ASIair stays in the telescope case out in the garage. My Duo and ASIair+ are also sensitive to low voltage. Needs to stay above 12v or gets unhappy. Having the duo doesn't stop you from using a separate guide camera/scope if the occasion calls for it. So far I've found no need for a separate guide scope.
How was the wi-fi? Since you didn’t mention it, I’m assuming it worked fine for you. I’ve had issues with the wi-fi on ASIAir’s, pro and plus, that I was only able to resolve using a travel router and an Ethernet connection to the ASIAir. Since the 2600Air doesn’t have an Ethernet port that causes me some concern.
Great question!! It's been really good on its own, though lately I use it in station mode connected to my home/observatory WiFi - this allows me to roam wherever I like around the garden/observatory and stay connected 👍
Thanks Luke for an honest review of the camera. It is a winning combination to be sure. I will be more inclined to purchase this if they ever open up to non-ZWO hardware.
Thanks so much mate!! Clear skies :-)
I've got the 2600mc duo (the same thing) and an asiair plus joined to my home wifi. I don't like the vendor lock-in, but it's still pretty slick. I do sometimes find it hard to get a guide star at >1600mm focal lengths with bortle 7 skies, or with a full moon. But guiding does just work for the most part.
I would really like being able to change the ROI for the asiair's focus preview, because there's not always bright stars dead center, and you can't align until you've focused. The focus algorithm gives up if you aren't close enough to focus in the first place (it won't do a full range sweep), so there's a lot of initial focus iteration when switching from one rig to another. For giggles, I tried it once attached to a cheap manually-focused Maksutov 105mm telescope, but found that there's only about 1/6th of a rotation on the focus knob where stars are actually visible (much less than that for proper focus), compared to about 6 full rotations where they aren't visible at all.
Not having a permanent observatory, having something I can set up relatively quickly (and take down the next morning) is key. A lot of nights, I find I just plop out one or both of my seestar S50s because the seeing isn't great anyway, or there's just an hour or two of clear sky, and I can just poke around looking at things without spending more than 3 or so minutes of setup time and without sitting outside with the biting bugs or freezing temperatures.
Thanks for the great message mate!! - re: the Seestar's, They're amazing for that aren't they! :-) I do that too
The only issue that concerns me is the reliability of the "Air" component. I've had an ASI AIR brick before, and in that case, what do you do?
Good question mate, I'd guess it would be sent in for repair! Out of interest - Did the brick occur on one of the older models that used an SD card for the operating system by chance? That was apparently the most likely point of failure
While I can see the benefit using the colour camera version, lots of pluses for sure, the mono camera version might well be problematic for a couple of reasons.
First it looks like you’d need two inch filters in the filter wheel to illuminate the guide chip, anything smaller might mask the chip. Another issue would be guiding behind narrowband filters, and the difficulty that brings in finding guide stars.
I have the 2600MC Pro and would have bought the Duo if it had been out. I also have the ASIAir+ and like the combo. I don’t think I would go with the 2600 Air as I use three cameras and like being able to swap them and not lose control or guiding functions.
I would like to get this. Already have the duo. Love this camera and no problems shooting at f10 thru narrowband. At worst case, id reframe my object if im in a skimpy part of the sky concerning stars. Would love to remove even more equipment/wires.
0:38 Please excuse my ignorance but what is that pole mount you have the AM5 on?
@@OscillateDarkly hey mate! :-) it's an Altair Tri-pier, there's a few alternatives out there but they are all very similar
@@lukomatico do you see any major advantages over the zwo carbon one?
Does Air version not have the focus knob for the guide sensor? The normal Duo does. At ~ 6min you say it is not focusable.
It does indeed mate, I was mistaken - I'd thought it was a desiccant recharge port like on other cameras! Clear skies!
I may have missed this but is it possible to use this like the ASI2600MC Duo (i.e. choose to bypass ASIAir using my own PC when I want to, and at other times choose to use the built-in ASIAir)?
It's pc only I believe mate, aside from any unsupported workaround 👍
Thanks for the review. I like the concept but I might just wait for the mono version before purchasing. Still not quite sold on tying myself to the ASI environment as I'm currently using NINA on a mini PC. I've got a wireless Flat Panel l that uses an ASCOM driver and I'm not sure the ASI could control it.
It would be pretty cool if they release a mono model!! - that said, I'm very much a OSC guy!! Clear skies :-D
Beginner question: what does it mean that you can't use it with a PC? What do you need to use it with instead? Thanks!
Hey mate! You use it standalone with the inbuilt asiair system, that'll control everything and take the place of the PC in traditional astro imaging rigs :-)
Great review Luke
My camera 2600asiair fails to maintain the wifi signal on for more than 20 minutes. It disconnects and does not reconnect randomly at least once per hour. I have to restart and redo the connection. I got it last month.
Sorry to hear you are having issues mate!! - have you checked if the disconnect happens in conjunction with any imaging event, such as a dither etc?
Can binning be used to make it more appropriate for longer FL (like native f10 on the celestron edge 8hd or edge 11hd)?
It can indeed, yes! :-) it supports bin 1, 2, 3 & 4
Could you help me with a doubt? When you connect the camera via usb to a PC it works on PC even being also connected to asiair internally? I was wondering if I connect to a PC if I would be able to shoot from PC or asiair equally. Or once you connect to a PC does the camera disappear from asiair?
Hi mate, it does not work with a PC - only asiair 👍 hope that helps!
@@lukomaticomy tested and could connect to Nina via wifi!! Actually it's on the manual!
Thx for the review! That WILL be my first dedicated astrocamera 😅! Now I just have to plan when and how to rob a bank 😩🫣… jokes aside, I do have to save up a year or two for that price-tag. But I am oldfashioned, save first, then spend and only what you have 🤷🏻♂️😊
Up to which focal length and down to which focal ratio regarding the guiding sensor?
It's hard to say, there should be practically no lower limit, but upper - I'd say things could get difficult by f12 or something, like a maksutov
@lukomatico so askar 80phq or 107phq with l-extreme filter could work?
Is the guide sensor used at 600-750mm focal length an advantage or disadvantage compared to a separated 50mm focal length guide scope?
Hello. Is that a William Optics Tri-pier that you are using or something else? Have you covered this pier before in a previous video? If it is a WO tri-pier, which adapter plate are you using? Thanks.
@@Astro-Suburbia hey there mate! It's basically a rebrand of the tri-pier yeah! A few companies sell them - I got mine used, but my AM5 is just bolted to the top using I'm assuming the default plate for this 👍
Im still in 2 minds.. due to power (off grid) and F6 upwards, but what if the air stops working will the camera still work!!
Hey mate! - I would say it would not work without the air functioning too, sorry!
Great review Luke!
Thanks a ton! I'm glad you enjoyed it my friend 👍👍
Your video’s are great like always but I will stick with N.I.N.A and my Player One Ares C. I do use the ASI 120mm-s for guiding. my power drops to 11.7 when everything is running cooling 3 dew heaters guiding and it keeps working great. 👍
Off topic but will you be reviewing The Touptek AstroStation at some point?
I'd love to yeah!!
An you still use it with external guider?
No mate, all done with the internal sensor 👍
It's a cool gadget sure, but if one component break, you're left with nothing. On top of that, you cannot as a workaround (while you wait for a new AA, guidecam or whatever), use something else to do your imaging. As far as I understood it, with one of these, you are 100% dependent on it working. That vulnerability is one reason I try to avoid all-in-one products.
When it works, I have no problems imagining it works well, but if something breaks; you're kinda hosed.
Like you said; it's not for everyone. I like to be in control, and I like to have options. The MC Air does not offer that, so it is not for me.
Hey mate! That's fair, I totally understand where you're coming from!!
Clear skies 👍👍
I avoided this camera and sensor and saved like over £500 by getting Altair Astros 26C. ZWO's initial denial of the sensor bleed issues made me steer well clear of them on moral terms but in the UK at least they remain un competitively priced against Altairs cameras, which use the same sensors but are much cheaper. This all in one seems like a good idea but is way overpriced. Another good video as ever though Luke.
Thanks for the feedback Des!! Clear skies mate 👍👍
You say 12v or above? The camera is rated at 12v. Couldnt going higher cause damage? I ask because i have the camera, and ita buggy as hell. Should i try 13v?
Hey mate! I've ran my asiairs at 13.8v before with no issues, but haven't tested this camera personally that high - if you're having issues with frames corrupted or not downloading then it was 100% solved with a better power supply for me, as with any power issue the fit of the DC jack itself can matter too, do problems occur under large slews or meridian flips etc?
Hope that helps!
Awesome video, as usual! Not exactly my cup of tea, because I don't want to be locked into that ecosystem, but it does seem to be an excellent piece of gear!
Thanks mate!! Totally understandable yeah! It really is a fine bit of kit though so I'm glad that comes across well on the video :-D
If I was getting into AP right now, this would be an extremely compelling piece of kit. Yes, you're locked into the ZWO ecosystem, but is that really a downside to someone completely new to the game? I would argue that it isn't. You can put together a very capable rig using all ZWO products. The AM5N is a great mount for quite a large variety of optics. ZWO sells rebranded SharpStar/Askar scopes from 65 to 130mm aperture. All of them would pair up well with the 2600MC Air. Add an EAF and you're ready to go with a package that's quite portable and easy to get setup and running.
Totally agree with you mate, very fair points I'd say! 👍👍
Clear skies to you mate, always a pleasure to hear your thoughts!
As you said with ASIAIR. IT JUST WORKS.😊
It really does, I've been very impressed indeed mate! 👍👍
Looks good mate but still not a fan of being locked into one system so still holding out for the Astro station by Touptek, hope you're all well? Clear skies
All well here mate!! Thank you :-D the astro station does look interesting doesn't it!
Good review. Cool concept. Not for me though. For some things, a closed ecosystem is what is called for. In support of a necessity or obligation for example where cordoned off reliability is a comfort. For me, astrophotography is a multi-faceted deeply engaging hobby. Engineering a complex solution and troubleshooting and tuning it to work optimally is what draws me TO the hobby, not away from it. Unlike some, I don’t fear this sort of tech. But, I don’t consider it the same hobby either. It’s paint by numbers for AP.
I’m sold. Just too easy a setup
🔭👍
They really are leagues ahead when it comes to ease of setup and use! 👍👍
Wishing you and Chloe the best with the birth mate
Thanks so much Sean mate!!
I'm not sure if I'm the only one but this review feel suspiciously positive, especially coming from someone who wanted to get away from that locked in ecosystem of ZWO in the past. Also you did mention that you are locked in into the ecosystem regarding the camera and guidecamera but the focuser, filterwheel etc, that's also a big point to consider which isn't really mentioned that well, if at all.
Also all the negativ points are instantly followed up with a positive without really going in depth on those negative ones.
I love your videos luke, don't get me wrong but this review feels worringly biased out of some reason expecially comparison to the other great reviews you've done.
Hey mate - I don't really like you inferring that I'm being deceptive, I just like the product, that's all there is to it! It's been really helpful lately as I've been so busy, which has perhaps made me appreciate it even more, too.
As I explain at the start, and again at the end, I'm not making a penny from this, I'm actually down cash at this point.
Sir, I am a new subscriber - would you please consider creating/making a new video on 'some' of the best cameras that I can use for VIDEO astronomy - I prefer colour and CCD, but I am receptive to options. Thank you...
Thk you
Just gone to look at the price of the camera. It’s well priced, certainly less than the sum of the individual parts.
...one day. one day. my 585MCP is awesome. Also have a 678MM that I use as a guide but I havent put it to the test yet. Need filters. :(
lol, also... If I get a 2600MC Air. I'll have a whole other guide set up and cam. I guess my only option is to buy another scope XD Realistically, I'd like to get something that would be good for planetary and lunar. need to research this! Hope everyone over there is doing well. Congrats again dad!
I might bite on the MM.
This is the APple of Astrophotography - wouldn't touch one with someobody else's barge-pole. No thanks.