Variscope microscopes?

[Rockhammer]

I'm looking to purchase a polarizing microscope on a small budget, and I've realistically narrowed my options to the two little-known (and probably Chinese made) brands of Variscope and Amscope. There is a helpful discussion on Amscope in this very forum, but nobody has mentioned variscope yet.

 

Does anyone here have (or know someone who has) experience using or owning a Variscope? Are they any good?

 

I'm a bit weary because as the old saying goes, "if it sounds too good to be true ir probably isn't." But, unless anyone here knows where I can find a functional polarizing scope with an analyzer/rotating stage for under $2500, Variscope and Amscope are all I can afford.

 

Thank you all so much for any help or useful advice you may provide.

 

Here is a link to a variscope scope for reference:

http://www.promicroscope.com/storefrontprofiles/DeluxeSFItemDetail.aspx?sid=1&sfid=198847&c=0&i=248459511

Edited July 21, 2010 by Rockhammer