So I guess the best option is to hook up with an astronomer who is rapidly loosing their eyesight

Only kidding.
Thanks for the recommendations - I will keep a good eye out for Pentax's and the others that were recommended.
It will be a couple of weeks before I get my scope, so I need to find at least one EP before then or I will be totally frustrated.
Thanks for al the advice - it's a great site.
Bruce.