[taxman (Matt)]

After trying to "save" money by getting a reasonably good 90mm refractor on a wobbly eq2 mount (unless you want to buy it - then it's awesome) I pretty much nipped my burgeoning interest in the stars in the bud.

I then got a spotting scope for my office (55mm Olivon - seems unbelievably good to my inexperienced eye) as I work late most nights until 7 or 8 at night and a quick session with the moon perks me up before I go home.

Then, a couple of weeks ago, I took my little spotting scope up to Mt Cootha with the kids and got a look at Jupiter through it. We saw two cloud bands and 4 pinprick moons.

Bang - I'm hooked again.

I read elsewhere on this forum about a chinese manufacturer selling 5" apos for ~$800, emailed him and almost made my mind up about a 6" short tube achro.

Today, I went to the Bintel website and then called Don who has offered me a pretty good deal on an 8" dob +freight+6mm eyepiece+cheshire collimator. I also like the idea of a day or two for delivery, rather than waiting for 40 days.

Luckily I have an indulgent partner who actively wants me to get a telescope, particularly after the kids' experience.

But, I am by nature tight and need some advice that the dob is the way to go before I can take the plunge. Any comments?