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Hi ColHut,
I'm not necessarily the best qualified to answer, but I do have a Synta 8 inch F6 dob, and a GSO 8 inch F4 (originally on a GEM). The first is a few years older, and hell, maybe details have changed. Hopefully others will correct me, but here goes.
I prefer the Synta OTA tube. White, smooth paint job, almost looks and feels enamelled, compared to the coarser paint job and thin-walled GSO OTA. (Used to be some reports here of rust on the GSO OTAs. I could picture that on mine, but I can't imagine it on my Synta.) Both tubes are sufficiently black on the inside, although the GSO is probably blacker. The GSO R&P focusser is much better than the Synta one (so I bought a Crayford for the Synta). The GSO secondary mirror holder is better, more robust looking. As too the GSO collimation knobs. (I think the Synta primary knobs aren't even interchangeable with Bob's knobs, which is a bit of a pain.)
The laminate on the dob base is superior on the Synta. I get the feeling it will tolerate more damp. OTOH, the GSO eyepiece rack is better. (How much detail do you want?!)
If there is a difference in terms of the mirror coatings, wave error, etc, then I can't see it.
I think the tension control handles that Synta use to stabilize altitude movement is pretty good, and probably better than the spring system on the GSO and other dobs. This is probably a matter of personal opinion, though. Still, if nothing else, it is nice to have carry handles right there handy.
Originally I thought the tension control handles would preclude attaching encoders for an Argo Navis. This is no longer the case, and I have attached an AN to mine. Works a treat.
For the size you are looking at, you'll want a fan I suspect. And if they throw in a Crayford focusser, it is definitely worth it and would almost certainly tip the balance for me.
Which ever dob you get, you'll love it. But try and get the one you can check out first hand.
Good luck!
Cheers,
Brian.
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