I'm not sure how well binoculars compare, but as far as bang for your bucks would go I would be looking at a small dob mounted newt ( Dob ) in the 6 or 8 inch area. As far as operating them goes it really couldn't get any easier. Point and look! And cheaper. Check out either Bintel or Andrews Communications, where you'll save some money for accessorising eg. red light, chair, a planisphere and a collimating tool.
http://www.andrewscom.com.au/site-section-10.htm
http://bintel.com.au/
Cheers Brad