Hi Steve
I can't answer the performance of an GEM vs fork/wedge arrangement, but regarding the CCD aspect, the C11 is fine for CCD DSO work. The large aperture is great, but the long focal length of the C11 will make it more challenging if you don't go all out with respect to guiding etc.
You'll want a focal reducer to make it a little easier to start, to give you a wider field of view and a faster focal ratio.
Regarding CCD's, for budget-medium range you'll be looking at either a DSLR or a DSI/DSI-Pro type of camera. If you already own a DSLR, with the right adapters you can get started almost right away.
There are many DSO images taken using DSLR's and DSI's in the Deep Space section of IceInSpace, so just start browsing around and keep asking questions.
Just beware that the photography side of things is quite indepth and will start costing more and more money
Not only the equipment, but the software as well (there is free stuff, too). Not to mention the time taken in capture and processing.
I hope you're ready
