Yes Dave, the six star trapezium view really demonstrated the awesome light gathering power of the 18" mirror.
As for things expensive, I spent some time looking at prices for 15" obsession and starmaster scopes and thinking, wanting, lusting about it .Then theres also the desireable accessories , such as a country dark sky property to keep it at, preferably nearby to a prime trout stream
As for the Takahashi refractor Mark has, maybe its a blessing I didnt get to look through it