Check for possible Meade 14" backplate restriction
The baffles in 14″ scopes manufactured prior to late 2008 reduce the maximum optical path to 1.75″ diameter. The EyeOpener will still significantly increase your light throughput by 31%
14″ Meades manufactured since late 2008 exhibit 2 different major backplate and baffle redesigns – with most opening the optical path up to a wonderfully full 2 inches and a few constricting the optical path to very restrictive 1.5 inches. Both redesigns utilize baffle tubes held in place with a spanner wrench notched ring. The thread on the outside of the ring mounts Meade’s visual back, and will also mount the EyeOpener. If you own the revision with the full 2″ optical path, congratulations. If you own the revision with the baffles restricting the ID to 1.5″, the addition of an EyeOpener will not increase the light throughput or the actual field of view of your telescope. If you have a revised 14″ measure your baffle ID to insure that the EyeOpener will benefit you.
The above image shows the original 14″ backplate configuration used until 2018
The above image shows the constrictive 14″ visual back with the 1.5″ restriction that Meade introduced in 2008. It’s believed that this variant was only produced for a shot time, but it’s best to err on the side of caution and measure your baffle tube as if you’re down to 1.5″ as shown the EyeOpener won’t help.
Image above is the latest 14″ visual back with a full 2″ optical path. If this is your scope configuration I ENVY YOU