Hey Steve
Thanks for the reply and don't apologies for the detail you've included, it is all considered very valuable stuff.
I'll definately keep the Argo Narvis in mind too.
I have made a decision re choice of telescope!!! I will be purchasing a 10" GSO dob ...
... Either from Bintel or Andrew's Com... I will see who can give the best deal. As for reasons behind my final decision (haven't got it yet, so possibly final!!!):
1) 10" should be enough aperture to intially see a lot and learn a lot from a variety of observing sites, including the backyard.
2) 10" leaves room to upsize to either 12" or 16" sometime soon
3) Price - can't hide the fact the difference of $800 between the 10" GSO and 12" LB has an influence
4) Portability - I'm guessing the 10" GSO will be easier to shuffle around the backyard and traveling to other sites than the 12" LB. I'm also guessing less set up time than the LB truss type too.
5) Inclusions in the package - The GSO comes with 90 deg finder scope and 3 or 4 EP's. The LB comes with the redlight target finder and one EP. While this may be better quality (I'm guessing) only one EP seems a little limiting and I've heard while the red light finderscope is OK, the other regular type is much better. Therefore, I'd need to spend extra to match accessories.
6) If the need arises in the future, the solid tube 10" can be mounted for photography.
While I'd like the extra aperture of the 12" LB, I think I'll be happy with the 10" at this stage and just upgrade if I see the need later. I think a dedicated scope like an ED 80 and suitable mount for astrophotography seems like the go at this stage. As I'm not in the market for this at this time, better to focus on and buy for what I'm planning to use the telescope for now, visual observing, but also keeping in mind ease of use.
Still time to "toss in a spanner" if anyone feels the need!! A week or two should see the deal done...
I will definately post pictures when I get it. So thanks all for the feedback and advice. It has all been greatly appreciated and helped me to make the final decision.
Cheers
Dez