I've looked through assorted inexpensive binoculars-50-350 dolllars, one $500 pair of pentax, and through a pair of swarovski 10x42 binoculars. Certainly the swarovski give a nice view when I go eagle watching with my br-in-law but I don't know if i could pick out the most expensive binoculars just by the view. My question is this. Let's say 10 novice birders tried out 6 binoculars $75-$200, 6 pair $250-$700 and 6 pair $800 and up. Do you think without knowing the names that the most expensive binoculars would come out on top and the cheapest would come in last on average? I'm talking strictly by the view not by looking at the construction.
Some of the less expensive binoculars today are quite good, and I think there is less difference in optics between the various price ranges than there used to be. On average, I expect you would, however, be able to see some difference in the three price ranges.
The real question is which pair in what price range would make you happy? It doesn't make a lot of difference where other folks find their "comfort" level. There is a lot more to binoculars than just the optics too. Fit and feel are extremely important, and vary greatly from person to person. A pair that many folks just loved was one I wanted absolutely nothing to do with, and I am sure some folks would take exception to my choices in binoculars.
Clear skies, Alan
I think you could certainly tell a difference, especially if we are talking roofs. I would also say that you would tell a tremendous difference in low-light applications, and true color renditions. Remember, most optics look pretty good in a store or under ideal circumstances. But, you don't use binos in stores and it rarely seems to be ideal conditions in the real world.
ranburr