Hi robert. I am only a beginner into astronomy and don't have experience with other scopes. I can only speak on the experience of using my dob. To your question about a dob in the back yard I can say that I have been pleased with the views I've experienced. Some nights are better and clearer than others so don't be put off if your first few nights aren't what you expect. I found through practice I could find what I was looking for and work out the best ways to handle the dob.
From what I've read about on sites like this that in a back yard situation bigger aperture is usually better.
Having said that dark skys are the best option with any scope so it's a matter of making the best of a less than ideal situation
hope it helps
cheers
Gary
