advantages of different weapons tech

[Dogboy]

I realize this depends on what enemy strategy you are trying to counter, but generally speaking, what advanced weapons tech do people go for in the mid game? I'm also interested in people's thoughts on how different research goals "mesh". For example, Null space projectors rely on astrophysics, which opens the door to monoliths as well as stellar manipulation technologies. Others (Hellbores) seem like cheap technologies to fully develop once you invest in the necessary technology. Any tips from the gurus? Thanks! DB