Now, before anyone goes too crazy, I just want to clarify: by 'obsolete' I mean replaced by the next tier wonder with improved technology (e.g. image stabilization, zoom, etc.); I realize that, optically, some of the current generation alphas are about near as good as you can get, and even the "dated" alphas of yesteryear are still competent bins.
More to my point: I've currently got a pair of 8x25 Zeiss Victory Pockets (an amazing little contraption, to be honest - I'd almost consider this a technological breakthrough in regards to binoculars) to use on my walks/hikes that aren't necessarily for bird viewing but may bring about some good birds. I've also got a pair of 8x42 Leupold Golden Ring HD (currently at L&S for some repairs) that are more of my 'main' pair of binoculars for dedicated birding (though the 8x25s will probably come along as well, given their portability). I have also got a pair of Vanguard Endeavor EDIV that are my car/work binoculars.
That said, I am in the process of selling my house, and considering something I've not considered in some time: buying an 'alpha' level binocular (to replace the Leupold GRHD) as my 'main' binocular. However, the current alphas seem somewhat 'old-tech', with really the newest innovation being the Zeiss SF with it's wider than typical field. I am concerned that newer technology is just around the corner (e.g. extra wide fields, better CA control, ergonomically friendly image-stabilization, actually usable zoom) and I may be throwing my money into something soon to be rendered 'obsolete' (as defined above). Most people pride themselves on their alphas being their main binoculars for 10+ years, and I'd like the same without feeling too 'outdated'. Several of the current alphas have been around, in one iteration or another, for a quite a few years now, so I'm just wondering when the 'next big thing' will be released...
Justin
More to my point: I've currently got a pair of 8x25 Zeiss Victory Pockets (an amazing little contraption, to be honest - I'd almost consider this a technological breakthrough in regards to binoculars) to use on my walks/hikes that aren't necessarily for bird viewing but may bring about some good birds. I've also got a pair of 8x42 Leupold Golden Ring HD (currently at L&S for some repairs) that are more of my 'main' pair of binoculars for dedicated birding (though the 8x25s will probably come along as well, given their portability). I have also got a pair of Vanguard Endeavor EDIV that are my car/work binoculars.
That said, I am in the process of selling my house, and considering something I've not considered in some time: buying an 'alpha' level binocular (to replace the Leupold GRHD) as my 'main' binocular. However, the current alphas seem somewhat 'old-tech', with really the newest innovation being the Zeiss SF with it's wider than typical field. I am concerned that newer technology is just around the corner (e.g. extra wide fields, better CA control, ergonomically friendly image-stabilization, actually usable zoom) and I may be throwing my money into something soon to be rendered 'obsolete' (as defined above). Most people pride themselves on their alphas being their main binoculars for 10+ years, and I'd like the same without feeling too 'outdated'. Several of the current alphas have been around, in one iteration or another, for a quite a few years now, so I'm just wondering when the 'next big thing' will be released...
Justin
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