To clairify, my SE and my Ultravid are pretty equal optically, I prefer both to the new Swarovision and Zeiss FL, but those kind of comparisons are personal. Others may like the edge to edge sharpness of the Swaro and not notice the rolling ball effect.

Where I find the SE perfect is the fit in the hand and overall balance of optical features, bright, sharp, contrasty, neutral color and of course that 3D porro view. Some people have blackouts with them. To the original question; if you can live without total waterproofing and don't suffer from blackouts, I believe that for $400-$500.00 you will have all or 98% the optics of any $2,000.00 bino around.

John