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I agree with Mental
$2500 is a lot of money and If my partner offered to spend that much on me I would want a say in what was bought.
My first scope was a present from the SWMBO and because of my own ignorance I asked for a 130mm Newt on an Q2 mount. Thought it would be the Bees Neez. $500 later and a few frustrating nights I realised I had asked her to get the wrong thing (shoulda got an 8" dob!). Anyways I felt guilty and still am a little.
My point is that it is very easy to get something that appears like a good idea but may not be the best way to apend the hard earned, and if it is a present, guilt may come in later. So talk to her about the purchase and get some reserach and definitely go with her to a shop (Bintel are great!) to see what you are buying.
That all being said a good quality 8 to 12" dob is hard to beat. For $2500 i would go a 10 or 12" (as long as she is comfortable with weight and size! hence the visit to the shop to view one!) without go to and then get a couple of premium eyepieces (naglers perhaps?) some charts some charts and books and dew protection.
While Go To has it's place, I am not fully convinced it is the best balue for money in a dob.
Malcolm
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