rockystar

I use the one that John linked to. It's just at the right level of detail for my 8" dob. I keep it in one of these: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00LTLCC5K/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_i_6EofCbVZDSXZP

Is it a better telescope? Yes. Is it better for you? That's more complicated. It has way more light gathering ability, so can see fainter objects, but it is bigger and heavier and thus less mobile, so it depends on you. If possible try and see one IRL and make an informed decision about if it will be best for you.

For your viewing pleasure:

I've got the ExSci82 24mm with mine and it's great. Not tried the 30mm. Well within budget and a great EP

Top tip: keep the scope horizontal when tweaking the secondary mirror, but I'll sure this lesson is now learned. First thing is to make sure the secondary look a round and not oval when looking through the focus tube.

You missed the most important one when buying new equipment: SWMBO - She Who Must Be Obeyed

Rainy objects are just the worst

Might they be a bit heavy for a 130 Newtonian ? I only have experience of the 24mm (which is excellent), which is a heavy beast - don't know how the rest of the range compares.

I should also say, that there are also a few nebula where a filter makes all the difference between seeing and not - but as a beginner, I wouldn't worry about those to start with, as thereis plenty up there

What no-one has mentioned yet, is that you don't need any filters too see planets or nebula, they only enhance the view. There are some nebula that respond better in certain wavelengths, and for that, the advice above is top notch. For planets, different people have varying degrees of success with coloured filters to tease out certain detail.

Defo up for it, haven't been anywhere dark (and clear) for ages

At 12.30 last night (or this morning, if you prefer), I saw Orion poking its head (and body) above the neighbour's house. With the clocks going back last night, give it another couple of weeks (next new moon) and it should have cleared that house by 11pm. Yeah for winter

Clear skies; or somewhere to go when it isn't

Yeah, i need a few trips out this season. And as much as i agree with the statement, i'm not always a fan of its use - it isn't always possible to get away from home (maybe you don't drive, or have children/other commitments), and when you can't, you want to be able to maximise what you can do from the back garden.

I'll keep an eye out, a quick google search came up with your "First Cloud" review of it from 2006