I have and had Refractors, Maksutovs and Dobsons.
If I would have to start visual astronomy I would look at:
- a 100-120 short and light (f7-9) semi Apo or Apo like the Tak FC-100
- on a alt-az mount like AOK AYO II, discmout DM-4, Vixen Porta
- with good EPs and a red dot finder (Telrad)
- On a good tripod like a Berlebach
That would come in under $5000, is quick to set up, has decent to very good image quality, allows up to 200x if the air permits,
is managable for newcomers , can later be the grab and go.
Just my two cents.