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Message: <blockquote data-quote="brocknroller" data-source="post: 3238203" data-attributes="member: 665">I suppose so, but that's always true for any 8x32 vs. 8x42 in the same line. You trade off aperture and exit pupil size usually for a larger FOV and a more compact and lighter weight bin. Given the popularity of the 8x32, it appears to be a trade-off that many birders are willing to make.Note that with the FLs, albinos actually rated the 8x32 model slightly higher in light transmission than the 8x42 model despite the baby FL having SP prisms vs. A/K prisms for its bigger sibling. The 8x42  light transmission - 93.9+/- 1.5% The 8x32  light transmission - 94.6+/- 1.5%Originally, the argument against making an 8x32 HT was that only A/K prisms could use HT glass, and Zeiss wouldn't make a midsized bin with A/K prisms, because it would be too big. I forgot who it was, but one of our resident optics experts made this assertion about the HT glass being exclusively made for A/K prisms. However, the fact that Leica is using HT glass in its Ultravid HD-Plus line calls that into question. The UVs don't have A/K prisms. So why not an 8x/10x32 HT with SP prisms and HT glass? Even if it's slightly lower in transmission, as the FLs show, it won't be by very much, and many birders prefer midsized bins. <a href="http://us.leica-camera.com/World-of-Leica/Leica-News/About-Leica-News/Global/2014/Leica-Ultravid-HD-Plus-42-The-new-generation-of-binoculars-with-improved-optical-performance" target="_blank">Leica UV HD-Plus</a>I still see a lot of 8x32 FLs for sale NEW. Either Zeiss is still making them or they were so popular that they made a gazillion and are waiting for the inventory to dwindle before bringing out a midsized HT or SF. You need to work your contacts and find out what's what. Inquiring minds need to know. :brains:Brock</blockquote>

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