Meade AR-5 vs Nexstar 5/5i

Need help in deciding which scope is the best for overall observations (ie; planetary, dso, etc). I live in the gateway of light pollution (Los Angeles). I have read good reviews on both GoTo scopes and would like feedback on which to choose. I keep flip flopping between the two. Please Help!

Depends on what is more important to you. The N5 Cat is more portable, has no chromatic aberration, and does not require polar alignment. N5 has better ergo design. But the AR-5 refractor will be a tad brighter, will stay collimated, has more contrast, and better detail on planets. Autostar firmware can be updated from the Web; has Celestron figured this out yet? The LXD55 EQ mount can also carry other OTAs. Let's not forget that Meade's $99 EP deal is arguably better than Celestron's $99 no-name Plossl deal. Good Luck!