So when the difference in price between new copies of these two (through an authorised dealer) reaches £1,500...?I tried both of these at the last UK Birdfair. Both are well built, the Meostar less refined (as you would expect from the price) but also giving the impression of being very robust. The Meostar handles better, it's noticeably more compact (but is still a large binocular). Image wise the Meostar is very good indeed and does everything you expect from an 8x56 (bright, comfortable view etc), but this model of SLC is truly outstanding. It delivers a beauty of image that makes you feel that 8x binoculars in any smaller format are a little lacking. The price you pay for that superlative image quality however is weight and size (and cost).
I'd be surprised if you did not notice a difference between these two binoculars, but the Meostar version is itself a strong performer, and you may well think the difference between them (between £300 and £500+ here in the UK) is not worth paying for.
Took delivery of a brand new Meostar 8x50 B1.1 yesterday. I think I've been lucky, no signs of any of the quality control issues others have reported (particularly with newer B1 Plus versions), but I've only given them a brief test. Alignment spot on, focus wheel seems perfect (no play or rough patches), they fit me perfectly (raised one click stop with my glasses on) and they handle beautifully, so I foresee a winter of great content with these, they're a cracking pair of big bangers!