Disclosure: I work for Nikon
I am writing this with my very own pre-production 7x42 EDG glued to fingers, which makes typing a bit challenging but I can't make myself put them down! After using them for a week at the Space Coast Birding Festival in FL and showing them off at the wild and woolly SHOT Show just recently, I have to admit that I am in love with them!
They are improved over the LXL in just about every category. I am particularly pleased that many of the changes were specifically aimed at birders. Much improved depth of field is the most critical change in my opinion, but increased field of view, and the addition of a 7x42 to the line are also birder driven changes. I won't go into greater detail here except to say that they absolutely smoke! Production 42mm models are scheduled to hit the US in April with 32mm available in June.
For a close look at the EDG check out:
http://www.nikoncuttingedg.com
Check back in the next couple of weeks for more details.
As for the LXL, I love my 8x42 LXL as well, and they are clearly feeling abandoned. I don't think that are a large number of LXLs out there to be had, but those on the market should be a great deal. I know that one shop, One Good Tern, is clearing out their LXLs at cost, but I expect others will be as well. Either way, enjoy them!
EDG will replace the LXL/HGL (EDG will be called EDG everywhere it is sold to cut down on confusion) except for the 8x20 and 10x25 LXLs which will continue to be Nikon's high end compacts.
The eyecups are much improved. I expect that the durability of all cosmetic aspects of the EDG will be greatly improved over the LXL/HG. Rubber armor, improved neck strap, overall appearance, ect.
Water-repellent glass was not used in the EDG, though fog repellent cloths are available from Nikon that when applied to the glass achieves the same result.
Cameron Cox
Nikon Birding Specialist
