My former astrophotography rig consisted of a Meade SN8 imaging with a modified Canon 350D. The guidescope (dubbed the 'SS Crapper') was my first feable attempt at ATMing. The SN8 was a great instrument for learning and provided me with many successful imaging sessions over the year that I owned it. This model is very heavy for its aperture though and collimation is a chore due to the poorly designed secondary holder. By all accounts I am still a beginner, but eventually these issues and more became the limiting factors rather than my own skills. I've outgrown the limitations of this equipment and the 8" F/5 astrograph I'm building will represent an upgrade in every single category.