Hi Justin, (and you two as well )
to the madhouse.
I'll jump in and ask some questions before I recommend anything.
Firstly what are you wanting to see and where are you likely to be using a scope? The recommended start point these days for amateurs seems to be an 8"-10" Dobsonian Newton due to it's ease of use and light gathering ability so you can see more.
The 'AZ' in your first choice indicates it is an Altizimuth mount which makes it easy to use but of limited value for photgraphic purposes. The 'EQ' in your second choice says it is able to track or follow an object ( star, planet etc ) as it moves across the sky but the EQ type mount can be awkward to use visually sometimes.
The Refractor is a good size but will show some colouration (Chromatic Aberration) at the edges of objects. Only expensive Apochromatic Refractors have most of this characteristic resolved through special glass elements and design.
The Newtonian will gather more light ( although I would opt for at least an 8" ) but have no edge colouration although it will have diffraction spikes on the stars due to it's secondary mirror supports. (often regarded as a plus visually ).
Your requirement of 'easily portable' depends on why and where you will use it and whether you have suitable transport if necessary and a good back for larger size scopes.
I'd suggest before you buy getting along to a local Astro clubs viewing night to get some hands on advice and experience through the various types and sizes. Buying secondhand on here is also good advice, these guys take care of their equipment and you'll get extras normally and setups that have been proved, a good price, and advice to get you started.
Also remember that your first scope is probably not going to be your last scope. As you find out what you want to do more specifically and gain experience you will move on and get 'Aperture Fever' or worse still get bitten by the 'Astrophotography Bug', a very expensive and frustrating affliction
. So you can always resell and move up as your interest (and budget
) allows.
I've only been here nearly two years and already built 2 scopes and bought about 3 more along with various appendages for them so be warned
.
And ask more question on here. Plenty of people willing to help and loads of excellent knowledge and experience.
Cheers
Brent
Yep make that 3 votes for an 8 inch Dob , one of these will give you years of viewing pleasure , and if you hobby grows , or dies it will be easier to sell on here in the classified's section at IIS , without loosing to much $$$ . 
Its fun but expensive 
