EuroHD joy
I never though I'd like compact binos, but I'm really enjoying my new Euro HD 8x32s from Cabela's ($559). They're much brighter than I anticipated. The 10x32s were exceptional too, however I chose the former for the usual reasons of FOV, contrast, ... The first pair of the 8x I tried were defective. Upon inspection, I noticed inhomogeneity in the prism coating in the right tube. I don't know how that unit made it past QC. The replacement has no issues, fortunately.
I also tried out some Zeiss Conquests 8x32s. I found them very comfortable and very sharp, however their color accuracy and color vibrancy lagged behind the Euros, and they cost $200 more, so they went back to the NY dealer where I ordered them. (BTW, that particular dealer has a written rtn policy that states that they charge a 15% restocking fee for any defaced or missing packaging, yet he charged me the fee ($112.50) a priori when I arranged for the rtn. He has yet to respond to my enquiry about this matter. I'll reveal this dealer's name to any reader who PMs me.)
Bottom line: I'm very satisfied with my new binos and I'm having trouble putting them down. Let's hope Cabela's isn't acquired by Bass Pro Shops..