OK, I've had my minox 10x42 bl for a few days now and although they are great, and I love them, it's a one-night stand! I feel there is a bit of refraction/shadows going on here.
My general understanding so far is that Swarovski EL series are the best. If you had around £1300 to spend what would you get?
I want to make one more purchase and make it a final one.
There's too much info out there that I don't understand the technical side of. I want a pair of binos that will not make me want a better pair, if you know what I mean.
I do understand this is a HUGE topic of discussion and discussed in HUGE length already. Thanks guys.
It has to do with attitude and the particular pair you have. I got a pair of Nikon Monarchs and was pleased with them to bird several yars. Then I got Zeiss Conquests and spent a good year with them. Though sharp, I never liked them even as much as the Monarchs. It was pretty obvious after 2 weeks and I should have sent them back. But I could not afford anything fancier and decided to see if they "grow on me". They did not.
I would give the Minoxes a full week, and alos shop to see how you can afford a bette pair. The next step up will be even a smaller leap.
Some porro models will give you better optics for less money.
The Minox BLs have a very good reputation so it sounds as if they just don't suit you. The only way to get binoculars which you love is to try them out and see which ones you get on with. If not you could spend £1300 on everyone else's favourites and still be disappointed. I would take time to find some good optic retailers who stock the favourites, such as Swaro ELs, Leica Ultravids and Zeiss FLs and see which ones you get on with. A good retailer should be able to recommend some cheaper alternatives and you might find you prefer them and save a bit of cash too.
Ron