I am planning on getting back into astronomy (used to use an 8" newtownian 20 years ago). A main interest will be planetary and deep space, all via ccd imaging. After reviewing many scopes and cameras the following are my planned scopes and equipment thus far.

Scopes

1. 7" Meade apo & 14" meade LX200GPS
OR
2. 7" Meade apo & 16" Meade Newtonian

Cameras

1. SBIG 2000XM
OR
2. SBIG 8XE

I was sticking with Meade for convinience and price. I like Astrophysics but the waiting list is so long. If I just wanted one scope it would probably be the 14" but having seen the refractor images I am almost positive that I need one. Also, I am under the impression that I really need 2 scopes to cover all possibilities. But maybe a 7" APO is so strong that a 14" or even 16" reflector will not offer enough to justify the additional purchase. What other choices are there for the clear ccd images like those provided by an apo refactor? but with larger aperature. Contrast is very important to me, thus the joice of CCD systems. Any opinions would be most welcome as I am new to the CCD aspect. What advantages does the 14" LX200 have over the 16" newtonian (or visa versa)? I still have a few months of planning since some of these products are not yet shipping.

Thanks