Hi mr2ns,
My first scope was an 8'' Dob base scope from Bintel. Which I found really good.
I found it was easy to transport and when I took it outside, I just took the whole thing include the base and scope out in one go.
I used to stick the base on a square plastic box to save me from bending over as much and certainly saved my back at the end of the night.
So if your budget can stretch a little bit, one of these could be good for you.
http://www.bintel.com.au/Telescopes/...oductview.aspx
I found Bintel down here in Melbourne give good and honest advice.
Michael