Not saying the Meoptas aren't extremely nice, especially when factoring in the price, nor that knowing how 12x50 compares to 15x56 in field use isn't helpful, but a 12x50 vs 15x56 optics comparison is apples to oranges due to the different specs. (not saying that was the OP's intent, either). Just that optical comparisons are tricky and need to be well-controlled.
BTW, I have the Swarovski EL 8.5x42 and the Meopta 15x56. The Meoptas are super nice and I am very happy with them. The image is great. They are quite usable for short periods of time when braced against a support like a tree trunk, rock, etc. Long glassing sessions would need a tripod, though. No way would I spring for the steep increase in price for the Swaro 15x56 after using the Meoptas.
However, the Swaro 8.5x42 is a whole 'nother world. It is like you have magically "climbed into the image," and the binos fall away from your awareness. You go from "great image quality" of the Meoptas to "standing next the animal" of the Swaros.
JMHO
I agree. And as stated, I'm not an aficionado, just a good ole boy who knows what looks best in the field for the application at hand. I bet the 12x50 EL's are a "nother world" from the 15x SLC's, and most likely would be better than the Meostar 12s, but they'd have to be another solar system to justify $3k.
Your description of "climbed into the image" is a perfect way to describe how I feel about the 8x32 Leica Ultravids. My favorite glass. The Meostar 8x32 isn't bad either.
However, the Swaro 8.5x42 is a whole 'nother world. It is like you have magically "climbed into the image," and the binos fall away from your awareness. You go from "great image quality" of the Meoptas to "standing next the animal" of the Swaros.
JMHO
If you want magical, stare through a 10x50 SV. It has no peer, IMO, and is the single reason I won't take a step backwards with a Geovid. Clint, I've been lusting after either the 15x or 12x after Greg let me fool around with his on his way through town last year. They are superb, as you said. I've never seen the 15x version.
It is irrelevant what you think. What matters is the TRUTH.
The Meopta 12's have say a 5 percent outer edge that gets a bit unsharp. Doesn't bother me in the least bit as you have to keep the bins steady on a tripod and look at the very edge of the image to see it. I don't glass much like this. They are fantastic. On backpacking hunts the only bin I'll take is the Meopta 12x50.....
That said IMO the Meopta 15's are a step above the Meopta 12's. That outer edge mentioned above is almost gone. I've done low light comparisons with the Meopta and the Swaro 15's. Hand in hand. Bright, sharp, great color rendition.
I've probably spent over 200 hours thus far this year staring through the Meopta 15's. They are superb in every way.
- Greg
Success is found at the intersection of planning, hard work, and stubbornness.
I have the Meostar 12x50 HD’s, and love them. I briefly compared them to Swarovski 10x50 EL’s. The Swaro’s has a Larger flat field or sweet spot and a more neutral color. Not a direct comparison, but I kept the Meostar. I’m impressed with the Meostars, great glass.
They have one in Europe but due to patent restrictions they cannot offer it here in the US, however, the Leupold is the Meopta but it's $3000.00 and you're better off with the Leica for $1,999.99
I am ctsmiths friend with the Meopta 12x50’s. Longtime member very infrequent poster. I bought Meopta based on GregW’s rec because I hunted with him once and I know how serious he is about glass and how good he is behind it. In fading light, out to 600 yards, with 40ish deer to look at, with both sets sitting on identical tripods, it really wasn’t that close the Meopta’s were just better. I was surprised a little myself.
I am ctsmiths friend with the Meopta 12x50’s. Longtime member very infrequent poster. I bought Meopta based on GregW’s rec because I hunted with him once and I know how serious he is about glass and how good he is behind it. In fading light, out to 600 yards, with 40ish deer to look at, with both sets sitting on identical tripods, it really wasn’t that close the Meopta’s were just better. I was surprised a little myself.
My buddy owns the MeoStar 12X and Swaro's and now only one pair gets to go out and play while the other sits in the bino barn. The MeoStars are the ones he takes out for any low light glassing situations.
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