[Alasdair]

Currently I own a Skywatcher Black Diamond collapsible 10" dobsonian. It's a fine thing, but big and heavy. In consequence I hardly ever use it - it sits forlornly in the corner of my first floor flat. I'm thinking that a smaller scope - even if not as powerful - may in fact get more use. I guess my interests lean towards planets and deep sky (rather than the moon) and I don't need a GoTo scope or motor drive - I'm quite happy to do my own finding and moving. On the other hand, an equatorial mount might be nice.

So I'm hoping for advice. Advice (a) for scopes (including mounts) for say about $500, and (b), price no object. I don't know yet whether I want this scope as a secondary one, or to replace the dob completely. (Hence the price difference!)

But easy transport's the thing! Thank you.