Ok, I think I have decided to get the GSO simply because it is $400 cheaper. I just can't justify spending that much for no more aperture, no finder, no eyepieces, when the GSO comes with finder and 3 EP's. Okay, the EP's wont be great but when your getting more for less who's gonna complain. As for optical quality, both have identical optics so that one's a no-brainer. I have measured my car and with the passenger seat moved forward a bit the GSO should fit in the back (But I will try before I buy). The only reservation I have with the GSO's is the issue of rust. Some members have had issues with the OTA's rusting, and although this seems to be a rare issue I will take it up with the retailer and make sure that it is covered in the warranty. If I was richer I would save extra and go for the 16" GSO coming out in March, but that would mean almost 17 weeks of spending absolutly nothing, something I cannot do. Anyway 8" to 12" is a good upgrade in my mind, and seeing as the little 8" has served me well for 3 1/2 years I'm sure the 12" will keep me going for a long time. Thanks for all your advice guys, even though I may not have followed all of it, and I'll write a short post when I get the new scope telling you how happy I am with it
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Leon "astrogeek" Schreuder