I need to jump into this discussion. I'm afraid crazy is right. You would think, someone at Meade would read these comments once in a while. It's not that Meade can't have better quality control or customer service, they choose not to. I guess it isn't cost effective for them to do so. Some day, that will catch up with them. <br /><br />You will do well by sticking with Orion or Celestron or Hardin or anyone else but Meade. Orion is 180 degrees of Meade. My many experiences with Orion is they fall all over themselves to serve you, back their product and make sure you are happy with your equipment. ---- period. I have never had any different experience then this with Orion on many occasions. I can't even get angry with them when I want to, - they will always make it right, in my opinion. <br /><br />There is another advantage to purchasing the Orion XT6, or any other Orion Telescope. You get a free copy of Starry Night software. Starry Night is a Planitarium software that is fantastic. Starry Night is my primary tool for locating and identifying objects in the night sky. If you use Starry Night effectively, you won't need a GoTo Telescope. <br /><br />Clear Skies<br />Bill