Minox ED BR 15X58

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Brand and Model:	Minox ED BR 15X58
Price ($USD):	1200
Attributes:	Waterproof Armored
Objective Lens Size:	58 mm
Magnification:	15 x
Prism Type:	Roof
Coatings:	Phase Coated
Field of View:	4.1 degrees
Eye Relief:	16 mm
Near Focus:	16 ft
Weight (lbs):	3.25
Dimensions (w/h/d):	8.75"ht, 6.25"w
Description:

Vote Highlights

Minox ED BR 15X58

i was very interested in purchasing a pair of astronomical binoculars with more magnification and objective power than my pentax dcf wp 10x50's, and the minox 15x58's with ed glass seemed appealing. they are made in japan, have first class fit and finish, precise mechanics, twist-up eye cups, are water and fog proof, and come with a locking aluminum case/soft case/neck strap. these binoculars offer wonderful day time views. the 3-d effect, colors, and sharpness are outstanding. at 15x, they are a little difficult to hand hold for any length of time, but the included tripod adapter works very well (i use a bogen-monfrotto monopod and head). astronomically, the minox 15x58's are very good, but not outstanding. they were not much brighter than my pentax 10x50's, and revealed only slightly more detail on various objects due to their higher magification and larger objective size. i did not notice a real difference in color correction due to the ed glass than the same views with the pentax 10x50's. the orion nebula was a bit larger and showed a third star in the trapezium that did not resolve in the 10x50's. also, the minox 15x58's showed a halo effect around very bright objects such as sirius, jupiter, and the limbs of the moon. as other reviewers have noted on this site, it would seem that truly effective binoculars for astronomy begin at 70mm porro prisms (with the possible exception of the takahashi 22x60 fl's). overall, i would rate the minox roof prism 15x58 ed's as an excellent high power binocular, best suited to day time use, but certainly a very good astronomical binocular given its limitations. it is extremely well designed and built, of the highest quality, has great accessories included, and has a very good feel and balance. prices on the net range from $662 for an import warranty to $1045 for a minox usa warranty-shop around. c.w. southern california

Overall Rating: 9
Optics:10 Value:8
Weight: 5 (Veritable Vote)
Date: 03/17/2003 06:04:05 am PST
By: CW
Link to this vote: http://www.excelsis.com/1.0/displayvote.php?voteid=208109

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