I'm in the market for a nice microscope but to be honest, the selections are bamboozling. A mono or stereo? How much power? Lighted or non lighted, attachments? All need for nice close ups of my coins. I also see a USB type that photographs the coins. Are these any good. Suggestions, comments and sources for something reasonably priced would be most welcome. my scanner does just not make the grade and it's a good Microtek. many thanks in advance.
Well, naturally my first answer is going to be a question... What are you using it for? It makes a difference in how I respond...really.
Hi Cpper, Glad we are still on speaking terms, thanks. For my coins of course my dear fellow. To check for things I cannot see with my 10X loupe as I have really bad eyesight and possiblt to photograph with if it's the USB type, but I have not heard much on these, their quality or resolution capabilities.
Well, here are a few pointers then... 1. If you are interested in keeping what eyesight you have left, get a stereo-optical or 'binocular' microscope. One eye bandits are sight stealers, and if you spend any time doing it, you'll be blind in one eye and can't see out of the other. 2. If you plan to take any pics through the scope, get one that has 'infinite zoom'. This allows you to slide comfortably like a zoom lens on a camera. many scopes have 'step zoom' which is like a dial you turn for 10X, 20X, and 30X...with nothing in between. For photos you need the infinite zoom. 3. Don't worry about brand. I've used generic brand scopes for twenty years, and while a Zeiss is better it also costs three times as much. No reason for it. 4. Taking photos? Think you need a trinocular scope (the tube sticking out of the top for a camera)? Don't waste your money. I have other tips 5. Need a camera to work with the scope? Okay, stick with a camera that's a model or two behind the "current" model. Save around $100 instantly...especially if you can get it on closeout. I have a Nikon Coolpix that I use for the scope, and it's perfect for the job. Small body cameras with the smaller lens are best. 6. Need a camera adapter mount for the camera/scope? How would you like to spend $20 to make an adapter and tip your nose at the one the camera shop has for $40? Better yet, how would you like to go to the plumbing aisle at the hardware store and make an adapter for under a buck?? I did it, and mine works fine. That's a tip for a different day. You don't need overload and I don't need carpal tunnel...so I'll close for now.
I agree with Chuck on this as I use a B & L binocular stereo zoom 7-30X scope ( lab surplus) and it has one eyepiece adjustable so I can use it without my glasses on. I have a 0.5X adapter that will cut the magnification to 1/2. Also I have a single 5X eyepiece I can subsitute for the nonadjustable 10X eyepiece if further reduction is needed for the large coins like Morgans. My Canon 590IS shoots very well through one eyepiece, the autofocus and Image stabilization works great, and the camera is about $100 now. Labs are phasing out the older stereozooms for the newer ones with built in usb cameras, but they will soon learn they are not very upgradeable whereas a separate digital camera is. I have a USB microscope, but it isn't the sharp quality of the lab scope. I haven't used it for months. Jim
