Swarovski Optik is known for their fine quality and their latest creation stands up to the name. While in Rhode Island, I got the chance to try out a brand new pairs of 8.5×42 and 10×42 ELs. Having owned a pair of Swarovski 10×42 EL for over a year now, I was surprised at the immediate difference in the new version. And despite my lack of previous experience with optics (having only owned three pairs: junky, weak, and Swarovski) the new ones will create quite an uproar when they make it to the U.S. officially.
The new ELs are actually a bit lighter and more ergonomic, although I can carry my current pair for back-to-back Christmas Bird Counts without any discomfort (from the binoculars, that is). Optically speaking, the new EL is a definite upgrade from the “old”, providing a crisper view across the entire field as well as improved eye relief. The close focus is about from your eyes to your feet.
Butterflying and dragonflying just got a whole lot easier!
The new ELs are on top – you can see the obvious difference
With any premium pair of optics, expect to spend quite a bit of cash. Prices will vary due to dollar exchange rates (Swarovskis are made in Austria) but two grand is a good ballpark. Just remember, superb optics are the tool that will enhance your birding more than any other gadget, book, or trick.
Of course the best way to find out how great the new Swarovski ELs are is to go to your nearest dealer and try them out for yourself. But be warned; once you hold these beauties you may just refuse to give them back.
Overall rating: 10 out of 10 feathers Although I am still very happy with my “old” ELs (below)
Birdfreak.com Runs on Thesis
Thesis is the world's best WordPress theme whether you are just beginning a blog or running a fully featured online publishing business. With its amazing ability to customize and the groundbreaking use of hooks to arrange content, even non-code geeks can easily get on board.
The pristine framework of Thesis enables any blog to run more efficiently, produce better search engine optimization, and reach your audience in a cleaner, more efficient way. Thesis also comes with the best support forum the web has ever seen.
The following files are available free of charge for you to download and distribute. They will be periodically updated with new information.
{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
The new ELs seems very appaling to me.
May be time for a change my old SLC 10×42 are very heavy to compare with the ELs.
Appaling doesn’t sound appealing!
Actually I’m the owner of Swarovski EL 8.5×42 and I just can’t see how I’m ever going to own another pair of binoculars (apart from pocket ones which I’ve just bought at the British Bird Fair) – quality, lifetime guarantee and price all have something to do with it!
So own up, who has two pairs of Swarovski?
Funny how a typo can change the meaning
I don’t think I’d ever own two pairs of ELs… when I upgrade, my current pair will find a new owner