I'm always in the lookout for nice compact binoculars, be it true pocket binoculars or simply very small and easy to carry compacts, be it reverse porros or single hinge (I usually dislike double hinge due to the finicky usability and the narrow eyecups they tend to have to maximize -well minimize- the size savings). Anyway, I'm really intrigued by the Vixen Hoop 8x25 WP. I tend to like Vixen binoculars, and not that long ago I bought a quirky 6x18 pocket binocular that left me in awe due to the size/price/performance ratio. Vixen seems to have a good eye for quality binoculars and it usually offers good value for money. Furthermore, its offering in small models is quite catchy, but in the case of the Hoop 8x25... I just don't know.
Official website here
I haven't been able to find any reviews or reliable information beyond the pure specs. And what puzzles me is that retail prize I've found in shops like Astroshop is a whooping 339 €. For context, this is more expensive than the much acclaimed 8x25 Zeiss Terra ED at 333 € (the Terra is thought by many to punch above its prize and deliver a stunning performance). In fact, the Hoop is also way more expensive than other solid options in the 8x25 configuration like the Kowa BD (257 €), Meopta Meosport (189 €) or Hawke Endurance (229 €).
But then, if you compare the specs of the Vixen Hoop and the Zeiss Terra: the FOV of the Vixen is narrower, it also weights more, close focus distance is worse, IPD is worse, eye relief is smaller... and yet it's more expensive, even though it comes from a brand like Vixen that, while appreciated among the astro folks, is nowhere near Zeiss in terms of prestige and status. So, where's the catch? Is the Hoop simply a design exercise where value lies on its form? Or is it a true sleeper delivering a better performance than the Zeiss Terra and we should all be running to get one asap?
I am really very curious, if anyone has tried or has any information, I'd be grateful
Official website here
I haven't been able to find any reviews or reliable information beyond the pure specs. And what puzzles me is that retail prize I've found in shops like Astroshop is a whooping 339 €. For context, this is more expensive than the much acclaimed 8x25 Zeiss Terra ED at 333 € (the Terra is thought by many to punch above its prize and deliver a stunning performance). In fact, the Hoop is also way more expensive than other solid options in the 8x25 configuration like the Kowa BD (257 €), Meopta Meosport (189 €) or Hawke Endurance (229 €).
But then, if you compare the specs of the Vixen Hoop and the Zeiss Terra: the FOV of the Vixen is narrower, it also weights more, close focus distance is worse, IPD is worse, eye relief is smaller... and yet it's more expensive, even though it comes from a brand like Vixen that, while appreciated among the astro folks, is nowhere near Zeiss in terms of prestige and status. So, where's the catch? Is the Hoop simply a design exercise where value lies on its form? Or is it a true sleeper delivering a better performance than the Zeiss Terra and we should all be running to get one asap?
I am really very curious, if anyone has tried or has any information, I'd be grateful