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Message: <blockquote data-quote="b-lilja" data-source="post: 3399529" data-attributes="member: 106206">I have owned and used both + the SEI owned a pair of 8x30 EIIs for about a decade (2nd gen black non-peeling body covering), a pair of 8x32SEs (550xxx series) for four years, and Conquest HD 8x32s for about two years.  I think there is a clear hierarchy - the Conquests are hands down the sharpest, the SEs next, followed by the EIIs.  In fact the EIIs lagged enough that I sold them.  I know they are "classic" and well loved on this site, but my experience has been that they are clearly not on par with the HDs.  I do find the SEs a little easier on the eyes for all day birding - they somehow seem less demanding.  But I think the Conquest HDs are THE value on the market these days - I have tried side by side with even the Ultravid and prefer the Conquest HDs.  The key with the blackouts on the Conquest HDs is simply to extend the eyecups.  Given the fact that they are waterproof, the Conquest HDs are a no brainer.  I am surprised to read of others finding the opposite.  It certainly hasn't been my experience.</blockquote>