So to update this again, as much as I like the idea of an RC, f8 or F10 would be impractical for the occasional trips to dark skies. Probably wouldn't get sufficient data for a single image in one night at that speed.
Other considerations ...
Max ota weight under 15kgs to suit my EQ6.
1200mm Fl
F4/F5
Decent focusser for my QSI Wsg8 (2kgs)
Corrector/collimator
CF tube (I have no dome, although that means wind issues too)
Guess that adds up to a Newt (or Mak/Newt), as already advised above by many.
So what's the difference between Asian manufactured units incl. GSO, Saxon/Skywatcher etc, vs Euro stuff like TS & Orion?
Seriously considering parting with my WO FLT110 so that will free up the budget (a little) as well, so maybe $3k- ish to spend.