I've done imaging on a small scale with my entry level Meade DSI. I got some good shots of M42, Eta, and Moon. But when I came to process them...Wow, I had to learn a new language. Convolution, grey scales, masking, red, green, blue, gamma, histogram etc., etc. Then found out I would need about $1500 just to get a monitor and a printer to print what I saw on the screen, I thought Aha back to visual
With my lovely LB 12" there was no competition. So.... if you want a great 8" SCT all set to go either way, see my ad in telescope section
Photons rule OK!!