I just tried one Swarovski binoculars with integrated diopter control in my local sports store. I am very impressed by that clever design. The optics is awesome too. But I don't think I can cough up $1500 for that pair. Do you guys know any other brands off the same feature for less than $300? I already had one 10x42 binoculars I got for $150. I am not sure whether this feature is worthy extra money for it? I like it only because it is a novelty to me. But I need some advice from people who have more field experience. Thanks
[QUOTE=NWBirder]I just tried one Swarovski binoculars with integrated diopter control in my local sports store. I am very impressed by that clever design. The optics is awesome too. But I don't think I can cough up $1500 for that pair. Do you guys know any other brands off the same feature for less than $300? I already had one 10x42 binoculars I got for $150. I am not sure whether this feature is worthy extra money for it? I like it only because it is a novelty to me. But I need some advice from people who have more field experience. Thanks[/QUOTE]
I'm assuming that you looked at an EL model, although the SLC series also has an outstanding integrated diopter control. As is typical with most binoculars, the diopter adjustments are done to the right eyepiece.
A low cost approximation to the SLC, which has received excellent reviews, is the 8.4x44 Swift 828 HHS Audubon. The latest version has been around for several years and has an integrated diopter control — which effects the left eyepiece rather the right. It is made in Japan by Hiyoshi Optical, the same company that made the legendary 804 Audubon.
They can still be purchased at about $300, but be careful to get the newest model. The first issue had an old-fashioned type diopter control. Incidentally, you should also be pleased with their click-lock eyecups that were only recently invented by Nicolas Crista of Swift Optics. They resemble Swaro's excellent eyecups but click into place.
Let's hear what you wind up with.
Blue skies,
Ed