[Chaos-l] telescope recommendations

[Jeff Wright]

I am thinking of buying a new starter scope, something in the $1000 or 
less range, that I can also use as a decent portable scope at dark 
sites. I have found a few Maksutov models in the 5" range that look 
fine. I am leaning toward a Meade or Celestron, just because of previous 
experience with them, but am open to other suggestions.

Anyone have any experience they can share? Thoughts on 5" scopes in 
general? I have considered going with an 8", but of course, now we are 
talking $2000.

BTW, I don't mind manual polar-alignment either.

Also, any recommended dealers/web-sites? I am familiar with ORION, but 
don't have experience buying from anyone else.

Thanks!

Jeff