Samolot
Well-known member
Good evening everyone,
For the past few months, I have been looking for the perfect "alpha" complement to my binocular collection. And by collection I mean solely the Meopta Meostar 12x50 HD. The Meostar's were a birthday gift so I have an emotional connection to them; plus their optical qualities certainly deliver so I feel like I have my high power binocular set (especially on a tripod!).
I have been visiting numerous optics stores testing out different alpha binoculars. I am looking for a nice 8x-10x to complement the 12x's. I tried them all and have gripes with each one... except the EL's. I wont dwell on this further (unless someone would like me to) and simply get to the point, I am looking to decide between the 8.5x42 and the 10x50. I love hiking with binoculars and observing daytime wildlife, but love to look up at the stars as well at night. I have read Roger Vines reviews with great interest and understand that the 10x50's should be perfect for me. Having said that, I am leaning towards the 42's because I need something lighter to carry with me that offers more handheld stability which you get with slightly lower power. I tried them outdoors and didn't want to give them back.
My question is, because both have similar exit pupils, is there a visible difference in low light conditions between the two in regards to brightness? Because if not, I will go for the portability of the 42's, but if there is something seriously lacking in them, I will go for the 50's (I tried the 10x50's once in a store without windows so I can't really test them properly... thanks B&H Photo...). Another thing I prioritize is depth of field, or 3D effect (I was spoiled by the Nikon EII 8x30's in the very recent past) so if there is a serious difference between the two, I would love to know!
I have been a long time lurker in these forums and appreciate everyone's thoughtful commentary based on real-world experiences. I am looking forward to learning more from experienced enthusiasts!
Sincerely,
Samolot
For the past few months, I have been looking for the perfect "alpha" complement to my binocular collection. And by collection I mean solely the Meopta Meostar 12x50 HD. The Meostar's were a birthday gift so I have an emotional connection to them; plus their optical qualities certainly deliver so I feel like I have my high power binocular set (especially on a tripod!).
I have been visiting numerous optics stores testing out different alpha binoculars. I am looking for a nice 8x-10x to complement the 12x's. I tried them all and have gripes with each one... except the EL's. I wont dwell on this further (unless someone would like me to) and simply get to the point, I am looking to decide between the 8.5x42 and the 10x50. I love hiking with binoculars and observing daytime wildlife, but love to look up at the stars as well at night. I have read Roger Vines reviews with great interest and understand that the 10x50's should be perfect for me. Having said that, I am leaning towards the 42's because I need something lighter to carry with me that offers more handheld stability which you get with slightly lower power. I tried them outdoors and didn't want to give them back.
My question is, because both have similar exit pupils, is there a visible difference in low light conditions between the two in regards to brightness? Because if not, I will go for the portability of the 42's, but if there is something seriously lacking in them, I will go for the 50's (I tried the 10x50's once in a store without windows so I can't really test them properly... thanks B&H Photo...). Another thing I prioritize is depth of field, or 3D effect (I was spoiled by the Nikon EII 8x30's in the very recent past) so if there is a serious difference between the two, I would love to know!
I have been a long time lurker in these forums and appreciate everyone's thoughtful commentary based on real-world experiences. I am looking forward to learning more from experienced enthusiasts!
Sincerely,
Samolot