Agreed - poor workman and their tools, of course, but that's why I am on here getting the thoughts and opinions of people have been through the stage I am at now, so that hopefully I can start off on the right foot and continue enjoying myself without the frustration of having (a) crap gear or (b) gear that needs a degree in astrophysics to use. There may be a slight exaggeration, but I am sure that you know what I mean.
From what I have read so far, the ION would be a reasonable starting point for me, with a new(er) marker, in addition to making the most of the automag, if I can source any necessary parts for it.