Great value - Kowa Genesis 33 10x33mm Roof Prism Prominar XD Binoculars

I have a decent pair of 8x32s and wanted something a little better/different. Tried Leica Trinovid HD 10x42 (compact for a 42 and is close to the Kowas in feel) and Zeiss Conquest 10x42 and bought GPO HD 10x42s. The GPOs were very nice-well built and clear. However, the thick eye cups did not fit my face, and I didn't care for the size and weight (if you hike long distances an extra 10 0z and additional bino carrier system wears on you). I moved the GPOs along and bought the Kowa 10x33s (on-sale). I am so much happier-great compact size and equally well built. The Kowas are as clear, but I feel they come in to focus a little sharper. They have a more precise diopter adjustment than GPOs or Zeiss, and I find them just easier to bring up and into focus on objects. I have not done any direct comparison in low light conditions, but have used them in low light and feel they are comparable with other high quality models. Others say they have soft edges, but I really do not notice. They do have good glare control and very little "kidney beaning." The 357' field of view is a solid return for 10x as well. For me, these were the best compromise. Lastly, I previously only cared about optics performance for comparisons, these (and Leica's) proved there is more to being happy with your choice-an easy to use size, nice diopter and focus, as well as great clarity and sharpness make these a great value. But wait for them to go on sale as I did, the retail is a little high.