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If you have definitely decided to go with a SCT type of scope the Meade LX90 or LX200,* the LX200 may be the better choice.(depending on your budget and future requirements)
I have the older (cheaper) 12inch LX200GPS the optics are very good for visual and ok for photography(provided you use a field flattener/reducer). The newer ACF optics are much better for both visual and photography.
The LX200 has a much more stable mount than the LX90 which allows you the option later to get into photography, but the 12inch has a long focal length even with a focal reducer and requires a bit of work and money for a beginner at imaging to be able to get the required equipment, set it up and image well.
The LX200 is heavier than the LX90, if your young and strong no problem to lift but after a while it gets to you, i currently have mine now on wheels already setup and locked away under cover in the garage it is very easy to push out into the viewing area.
If you definitely want a scope for visual viewing only and your budget allows (for visual aperture & quality rules)*a large goto Dobsonian may be better suited,
12inch Meade LX200ACF is around $10,000 new from bintel
12inch Meade LX90ACF is around $5,800 new from andrews
16inch skywatcher goto Dob is around $4,200 new from bintel (Leaving you $$$ for a set of premuim eyepieces,etc )
20inch skywatcher goto Dob is around $9,500 new from andrews (compared to lx200 leaving you $$$ for a premium eyepiece)
The difference between 12inch and 16inch is very noticeable especially when viewing Galaxies and in the 20 inch scope the view is amazing compared to a 12inch scope but some large Dobs can take some effort to setup to use, some need ladders to get to the eyepiece.
All being said i have found the well cared for cheap second hand 12inch LX200GPS to be a good all-rounder, easy to setup, easy to use, great optics,great views, good for photography, if my budget was much much larger i would have a minimum of 2 scopes a large 16 to 20 inch or more goto dob for visual with premium eyepieces and medium to large imaging 12inch newt or 4 to 6 inch apo on a great mount and a great camera for photography.
Hope this helps, Wayne.
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