$1500 Budget - What to do?

Hi all - I am looking to buy a different scope. I currently have a 10" newt dob. I want something that is more portable and go-to, with satellite tracking if possible. I have limited astrophotography goals (planets and moon).

I'm looking at two choices: a 2005 Meade 10" LX200 GPS UHTC with a bunch of extras or
a new Celestron Advanced Series VX Equatorial Mount (http://www.highpointscientific.com/celestron-cg5-advanced-series-computerized-equatorial-mount-91518) with a new Celestron C8 SCT OTA.

How long can I expect gears and electronics (on a well-kept mount) to be in good working condition? That's what concerns me about the used mount.

I love my current scope - but I'm spending too much time looking and not enough time finding. Plus, I transport it out of my light polluted area when I can, so the newt is pretty long and bulky for travel.

Thanks for your help in clarifying the differences in these choices.

Joe

Joe, an alternative (that admittedly does not answer all of your goals) is to add encoders and a DSC computer (Argo Navis, Sky Commander, JMI, etc) to your current scope. That could be done for less than $1500 and would solve your "too much time looking and not enough time finding" problem.

Your other problems remain, though. Sorry.