Or to put it in 5 words, "best bang for your buck".
Firstly, you have to have a clear idea of what you want to achieve and what you want to image. Solar work, solar system photography and deep sky require different equipment. The Jack of all telescopes do exist, but it will be a master of none. Keep that in mind.
Does it have to be a refractor, a Newtonian, an RC? You may not like certain types of scopes. I personally hate short fast Newtonians, even though they are probably the scope of choice of many for deep sky. They are one of the best bang for buck with deep sky. I don't mind the longer f/L Newts, they are another good bang for buck for planetary imaging. But you may hate newts of all flavors.
Let's face it, it's probably better to use a scope you like over a scope that may be best for intended purpose. That's why I like refractors. Easy, grab and go no mucking about with collimation, no flex, they are wonderfully lazy scopes.
One of the best refractor deals at the moment I think is the Skywatcher ED100. I'm saying that cos I just bought one.
It's no Tak or Televue but bang for buck it's awesome.
As for cameras, best bang for buck again is probably a modified DSLR. CCD's are way better, but way more expensive.