Hi Daemon!
to the forum! How did you hear about us?
It sounds like you've done a good amount of research already, so you're on the right track.
To me, it sounds like the 10 or 12" LX200GPS (I think these are $3000 approx for the OTA), on a GEM like the Losmandy G11 (with goto, I think is approx $5000) would suit your needs. Don't forgot you'll also need a guidescope, something like an 80mm ED (extra $600 or so). I'm guessing you have a laptop already?
As for CCD cameras, i've seen better and better results with the DSI (or DSI Pro), so they are a fairly good cheap solution. Obviously the SBig's etc are better, but at that price, it really depends how much time you think you'll have to get into imaging. It's a big investment.
Have you considered a DSLR, or are you more set on astroCCD cameras?
I'm sure some others will chip in too! Good luck!