Hi Dave,
Welcome to IceInSpace
Don't be afraid to "bother" people with your questions...
Most people here are only too willing to share what experience they have.
I am surprised you did not get any responses yet.
It is obvious that you have done a bit of research.
I am guessing that your question is so specific and involved that not too many would be able to comment on all aspects you mention.
Yes, the Celestron 6SE and 8SE are good pieces of equipment.
Very compact, easy to use, good optics, good goto (depending on alignment, as are all).
However, it may not be your best bang for buck, depending on usage.
For similar cost you can get a goto, collapsible DOB.
The SE also has the downside of more glass and larger central obstruction, which further reduce light getting to the eyepiece.
Also, being a single arm SCT, can reduce the steadiness in wind, or with larger weightier eyepieces/photo equipment.
This must be weighed up against the portability issue.
The best advice is always to get yourself to an observing night and have a look through different setups and talk to different owners.
I have had Newtonians on eq mounts.
a C9.25 SCT on EQ and SE mounts
CPC1100 (dual arm SCT)
Dobsonians (SW10 and SW12 Flextubes) (the 12 is a goto)
(and quite a few others)
without hesitation I recommend the Dobsonian.
The flextube makes it pretty portable.
and the goto is an added bonus (but does make it heavier)
But I can't comment on any of the other stuff.
Except a good observing chair is highly recommended.
Hope this helps a bit