On the subject of hardware, I hope this is not an inappropriate query but, well, here we go. I am quite new to birding and now I am on the lookout for a telescope to complete my basic kit, but I can't spend lots of cash on a Svarovsky/Zeiss/Whathaveyou. My budget will probably be around €500. If I look for something around 65mm objective diameter it should keep the price (and weight) down.
Is this just a waste of money or am I likely to find something decent in this price range? My binoculars were also in the category of "decent" as opposed to spectacular and I am very satisfied with what they offer, so I wondered if all you experienced birders have any suggestions for something of similar quality. By the way, I have had a look on E-Bay but found that difficult. There seemed to be a lot of "professionals" selling at around the normal market price, or if they were significantly cheaper, I wondered if I would want to buy from them. Oh, and one more question – zoom eyepiece or fixed magnification?
I would welcome any hints and tips. Thanks in advance!