The Orion SkyView Pro 8 is great for the intermediate astronomer. Images are much brighter and sharper than with a 6" reflector. The large focal length allows you to resolve fine detail at high powers. It can be upgraded to GoTo at any time.
All I can say is after deciding to go Dobsonian or Equatorial, I made the right decison since I plan on getting into astrophotography. basically took me an hour and a half to set up, collimate and start hitting the solar system. All I can say is "wow"and I can't say enough. Instructions were simple, items boxed and packaged very well and organized. Construction was very simple and the parts are well made. People complained in other posts about the plastic fine adjustment knobs...so what! Go to the guitar store and get some nice ones when or if they ever break. Took it to my first astro-club meeting last night and my fellow club members were very impressed. I plan on upgrading to the dual axis motor drive eventually. My first look at the Orion Nebula even in bright city lights really impressed me and the club. Orion you have my business for life.