why not consider an Intes Mak newt or an Intes Micro Mak ?
The Intes Micro is what I have in mind (budget being an important consideration for me). Sub 1000mm- but still much longer than the ED80
I still reckon the humble newt is THE way to go. A few years ago I built up a 10" f5 Maksutov newton, from an optical set. It was lovely, expensive but lovely. I used it for images of Jupiter etc and was chuffed. The major snag was that at the same time, I still had the humble "had it for years" 10" f5 newt. Side by side there was precious all difference in what I saw, and or imaged, and when you factor in the cost of the MN optics at about US$2500, and the cost of the newt optics at about US$250 it was a no brainer.
I love the Maksutov design, and for an all rounder, the MN is hard to beat but it costs, and the appreciation that I have for my newts is based on this.
So back to the start of all this posting, I still think the 6 or 8" newt, possibly even a 10" is where you should headed Mike. It will fit OK on the EQ6, and give you the around 1000mm focal length you seek. Plus it will deflate the wallet the least.
I don't think any local stores sell GSO scopes.....
