Welcome Andrew
For $1500, I'd go for a second hand EQ6 Pro (about $1000) and an ED80 (about $300). The $200 can be used for accessories etc. Remember, the longer the focal length, the less forgiving the final image, so start small. The ED 80 has a solid reputation.
As Dannat said, mount is everything in AP.
Once you played with the ED 80, then get a SCT or a larger refractor and then the ED80 can be turned into a guidescope for detailed work.
HTH.
Bo