Josh,
In the public voting box I voted for the 8" full tube. For those of us in Brisbane astropetes is the cheapest if you go there to pick it up.
However, if I could amend the voting board a little I would recommend the 10" full tube which is only about $200-$250 more. In terms of apreture bang for buck, the 10" is the sweetest spot. Apreture rules for deep sky objects specifically and for improved contrast in general. The more the better.
One other thing, how tall are you? The 8" set up is quite small, I found it back breaking to use. The 10" is only a little bigger, but for me that little bit was a lot. I guess you could just shove it on top of a crate.
The advice to go to viewing night is absolutely spot on. It costs you nothing and you get hands on experience before you buy.
Good luck.
Adam