I bought the Monochrome version since I wanted to get into narrowband imaging and at the same time, benefit from higher sensitivity and dynamic range. I bought Baader LRGB 2" filters with this camera.

My first impressions were that of amazement at how much better one can image using a dedicated CCD camera over a DSLR. The Artemis Capture software by ATIK is perfectly paired with this fantastic camera to deliver a very easy-to-use product that truly delivers in performance and enjoyment.

I've made test dark images at room temperature of 20°C and at -15°C cooled temperature and though at room temperature the noise level of a 5 minute exposure is impressively low (compared to any DSLR I've tested), at -15°C there are only three or four hot pixels visible in the entire image (easily subtractable with a dark image). I took a single 5 minute exposure of Orion Nebula with this camera and the Hutech IDAS LPS 2" filter and was utterly astounded at the clarity of the image despite not having stacked numerous frames. The detail of Orion Nebula picked up on a 6" f/5 reflector was drastically, drastically improved over my full spectrum modified Canon EOS 1000D.

It was a pricey endeavour (getting into CCD imaging), but after a single image I simply cannot return to a DSLR for imaging. I whole-heartedly recommend this product for anyone looking for a large-sensor CCD imaging camera. Do strongly consider the Monochrome version if you want to get into narrowband imaging or you think you might want to in the future (or you simply want higher sensitivity and dynamic range).

I've had one of these for a few months and despite the terrible weather I have been able to get a few shots in. It works very well, and is very well built.. very very well built.

There is one handling precaution I'd like to alert new users to.

DO NOT OPERATE OFF A TIRED BATTERY.

The camera works excellently above 12V, I run mine at 13.5V. If the camera is operated at below 12V then extreme noise will result and I believe this is the cause of some peoples complaints about noise with these. I have seen similar comments by other users stating above 12V all is good.

Bang for buck this is one of the best.