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If you are worried about maintenance and collimation the worst thing you could possibly do Is buy a fast Newtonian with a truss tube that requires disassembly to transport.
As has been said. The world's best planetary images (and planetary imaging is extremely demanding of optics considering we are talking about imaging at 12 to 15 METRE focal lengths) are imaging with celestron C14's. Paul H. On these forums produced some extremely good images with his c14. Damien peach needs no introduction either.
I tend to feel a lot of people will bag out cheaper scopes in an attempt to convince themselves that purchasing that high priced astro-physics/Tak was a worth while decision.
For visual work or planetary work, a c14 is top of my wish list. That's not to say I think the Mewlon is rubbish. Just that 989.7cm2 of mirror area vs 706.8cm2... Well... Physics rarely tells lies. Larger mirror. More light. More light, more chance of seeing faint details.
I know quality of optics makes a big difference but having owned a c11 myself. I can tell you now the view through a large, high quality sct is sensational. Especially when the seeing supports the focal length.
You know if you sold the Mewlon and em 400 you could probably buy a cpc14 and a 16" dob and have the best of both worlds.
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