thanks for everyones input, i had 2 scopes in mind
http://telescope.com.au/Telescope/Ho...%2cProductName
http://telescope.com.au/Telescope/Ho...%2cProductName
the mak would leave no money in the budget but i think would be smaller packed, and the newt is cheaper leaving room for other things, magazine, charts, calender etc.
i do like the idea of going to the shop though
i have a couple of weeks to think more though.
thanks again
nick