Meade DS line

I'm buying my first scope, I know you folks get these questions all the time and I appreciate the help. My question is: Just how bad are the Meade entry level DS scopes? I'm looking at a 4" (102mm) refractor, which comes with two Meade Plossl eyepieces (1.25") and an electronic 'GoTo' type system. I can't tell how sturdy the mount is, but i've got a decent tripod that I could use if it's no good. My concern is the cheap price ($250). Will the optics on this scope be terrible, or is this a decent first scope? I acknowledge that I'll probably outgrow this scope as my interest grows.

Thanks so much for any advice.

Go for it, it's decent for the money and if you are getting the 497 autostar hand control (has the numbered key pad) it has a world of info. The goto's will be fairly accurate and will guide you in a light polluted sky. $250 is what some high end eyepieces go for so you get the whole package for the same. For a first scope you will be pleased and will, want more.

Greg