I am guessing you could be after a computerised small scope on an altaz mount - with tracking and celestial database - for about $1k depending which scope you pick.
1. Nexstar MAK90SLT from Andrewscom.com.au, $899 - 3.5" aperture, could be underwhelming.
2. Nexstar MAK127SLT from Andrewscom.com.au, $999 - 5" aperture is beginning to be useful,
3. 6" Meade lightswitch
http://www.bintel.com.au/Telescopes/...oductview.aspx I have never seen one come up for sale secondhand so presumably those who have bought them must be fairly happy.
The
best small telescope is a Questar 3.5" but I suspect this is not what you had in mind
http://www.company7.com/questar/telescopes/quest35.html
Occasionally they come up secondhand for around $3k at Astromart or on Cloudynights.