Maven, Meopta or Zeiss 10 x 42? (2 Viewers)

[DrewskiMT]

I really think the Nikon HG needs to be in this list. Its right there with the other three options optically and ergonomically. The field of view is super wide and the bino is light and compact. Build quality is quite high, perhaps ever so slightly less than the listed options. Also, you should include GPO Passion HD. I havent held one, but people say it has the highest build quality at $1000, and better optics than the Conquest HD, which is very hard to do at that price. The only way to end up with the best for you is to buy and try all these side by side. Easier said than done, I know...

 

[[email protected]]

Zeiss.... no question

I agree.

 

[ragin-cajun]

how are the eyecups on the Conquests? I've read they had earlier issues.

 

[sillyak]

I agree.

I compared the Conquest 10x42HD very closely to the Meostar 10x42HD, which led me to purchasing the Meostar, which has been my main bino for over 6 years now.

The Conquest has better transmission, slightly wider FOV and slightly more ER, it's also a fair bit lighter. The Meostar had better on axis resolution (tested on a resolution chart, binos mounted on a tripod, admittedly sample variation could be at play) better edge correction, slightly better CA control and more of that alpha pop. Both control glare very well. I like the build quality and armor of the Meostar more.

It was a really close call as the lower weight of the Conquest was appealing. The image quality of the Meostar ultimately won me over though. I don't buy and sell much and they have been my only full sized bino for 6 years now. Very happy with them. I'm sure I'd be content with the Conquest as well.

 

[Upland]

IMHO you should try the MHG. Have either owned or tried the others and the MHG is the best.

 

[raptorbfl]

Kowa Genesis 10.5x44 (discounted heavily atm to $999) - probably optically best of the bunch - if you really don't like CA, you won't get any there... neither small nor light though.

jring,

Where??? I see NO online vendor selling the Kowa Genesis 10.5 x 44 for $999.

 

[dries1]

Both the Meostar and the Monarch HG 10X42s are good glass, however the Meopta Meostar (B1-Plus) are now more $$$ and a bit heavier (if weight is a concern). No real experience with the Zeiss. If one can get a Meostar B1 HD or B1.1 HD for less than $1,000, that is a very good value they have a transferrable warranty. If you purchase the Nikon I would buy it new to ensure warranty coverage.

 

[jring]

jring,

Where??? I see NO online vendor selling the Kowa Genesis 10.5 x 44 for $999.

Hi,

bhphotovideo on March 19th... nowadays 1399 unfortunately...

Sorry,

Joachim

 

[lilcrazy2]

CameralandNY has open box for 999 and new for 1099

Kowa Store | Camera Land NY

cameralandny.com