Greetings.
Encouraged by: a) Annabeth's review of this model, b) PHA and Stet's assertion that the Trinovid is the sharper of the two, and c) complete the assessment of the available 8x42 alphas to make an acquisition, I went to Leica DC store on Tuesday to perform a side-by-side comparison. This comparison would be the third time in the last 9 months or so.
In the previous comparison I did not succeed in seeing a "consistent" difference in the view offered by the two. The term view encompasses color, contrast, light transmission, CA, and the 3 D effect. By consistent, i mean: a) trying to see the difference repeatedly with few minutes time apart between each test, b) compare notes with a second person in the same time, and c) whenever possible, try to identify the model without looking whether it is an Ultravid or a Trinovid. In the three opportunities, the viewing conditions were very good with clear sunny afternoon light, although in an urban setting that somehow prevents effective testing of the FoV difference. The first two tests left me with the finding that you really need to bend-backward to see a difference between the Ultravid and Trinovid. Maybe, and then maybe, if you bend-backward far enough you may see a hint-of-a-hint of more color saturation with the ultravid--specifically with the color black in approximately 60% of the time. View was the same, handling was the same, and light transmission was the same.
The third test two days ago added (and confirmed) the following observations: a) the difference of 1 oz in weight is surprisingly felt this time (not meaningful difference in the field though), b) the Trinovid is indeed sharper than the Ultravid, no doubt (but why I did not see it before?), c) focusing in both models was very similar, but again, so were the handling, lighting and view characteristics. Additionally, I am myopic, and in both models eye relief was very adequate with the glasses on (I cannot use either without glass). Further, you put either on, and "boom" the view is in perfect focus with no need to realign your eyes what so ever -- the same cannot be said for the Zeiss FL 8x32 as there is often the need to realign for perfect view. Could there be lower lighting or other conditions in which the Ultravid would be better? Maybe -- but I did not see it. Would the absence of aquadora coating in the new Trinovid makes a functional difference? Maybe -- but I do not feel it with the older Trinovids I have.
I do not think that the above has added anything new to the discussion--but it confirms, again, that the Trinovid, particularly if purchased at the lower demo price, is an awesome wise acquisition. It will serve its owner tremendously well for many years to come. For me, it is certainly in the race for the 8x42 binoculars I want to buy -- but I am waiting to test the new Swarovski 8x42 before a decision is made.
Enjoy in good health -- and Happy New Year.
PS. The kindness of the Leica DC store staff is acknowledged and much appreciated.