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Hi George,
If you want the best, why are you not considering Orion or Skywatcher DOBs. (IMHO) I consider these outperform the ones you mention.
Where do you live?
Sounds like you need to get to a local observing night and look through a few various scopes (and accessories).
I can't answer the questions about differences in the mirror qualities, but my guess is that if they all come from the same factory, they are all made to the same standards. Perhaps there are some differences afterwards. You probably need to speak to someone who works there.
But I have heard some "experienced" users claiming that their GSO mirrors are exceptional quality. So I think you stand the same chance of getting "a good one" from them or their rebadged ones.
Differences probably arise in the accessories.
Obviously a 10:1 Crayford focuser is a benefit. But generally the supplied eyepieces are of similar good standard plossl quality.
Re your accessory list, this looks like a good list.
I have just recently bought a Hotech self centering laser collimator (with illuminated crosshair) from an the Astro Shop. And I have found it extremely easy to use and extremely accurate. I would have no hesitation in recommending it.
I have found that an observing chair also is essential. Steadiness at the eyepiece allows additional detail to be absorbed. And a Bintel type adjustable chair (although expensive) was well worth the investment in my opinion.
An oIII filter is good on many targets but some prefer a slightly broader bandwith filter. A UHC or a skyglow filter.
There are various comparisons around the net. IIS user Allan has been doing detailed comparisons (in his 12" full tube Orion DOB) for a while perhaps you could speak to him about his findings (why reinvent the wheel).
In stead of a pocket atlas I would recommend a Star Disc Planisphere.
I have tried Telrads on 2 of my scopes and didn't like them as much as a simple red dot finder. But that just gets you in the area, you still need the magnified finder scope. I highly recommend getting a right angled finder scope to save a few neck pains.
Additionally, a set of Bobs Knobs for the secondary adjustment is a good investment (saves messing about with an Allen key in the dark (over an unprotected primary mirror).
Bobs knobs for the primary may also be needed for some scopes but I think most are OK these days (check).
Good luck with your choices.
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