Telescope Reviews: Sub 5lb 20x80 choices

Hello All--
I am new to this group and looking for a big binoc to fill in between my Nikon AE 12x50s and my smallest scope (Mak-Cass) that I can get to about 41x (albeit dim and narrow). I have sort of settled in on a 20x80, and would prefer not to upgrade the tripod setup that I already have. I have a Bogen 3011N and a head that is an off brand (ProTech VH201), similar to the Bogen 3130. It is rated for 6kg, so I figure binocs of less than about 5-6lbs should be ok.

The main two pairs that I have been considering are the Oberwerk standards and the Garrett LW's. The triplets from either of these companies sound pretty good, but I think would be pushing my mount a little much. Opinions about this are welcome.

The difference in price between these is about $50, plus the more expensive Obies would require a good L-bracket. I know this is a subjective question, but I wonder whether the longer focal length of the Obies would be worth the extra quid. How do the Obie Standards compare optically to the triplets and to the GO LW's? I have poured over the reviews and posts, and though similar questions have come up before, I have not seen answers about these comparisons. I had orignially planned on spending around $200, but my budget could be persuaded somewhat by perceived value. For example, if the triplets are really gonna knock me out compared to these doublets, and if my mount could handle it, I would consider moving up. I should also add that I have ruled out the Obie LW's based on the shorter eye relief. I normally wear contacts, but often end up viewing with glasses.

I have also seen some Konus and NOVA 20x80s popping up for sale on astromart and ebay, but I cannot find anything about them in the reviews. While FBMC are a minimum requirement, I think, other features are negotiable. Has anybody gandered through these "value" alternatives?

Unfortunately, I live in an area far from any vendors where I can take a direct look. And the only friends that I have with big binoculars is a guy with a pair of Zhumell 20x80s. I checked them out from his LP yard and was unable to make any judgement about them. Jupiter was no more impressive than with my 12x50s, just a little bigger. So, any insight would be very much appreciated. Thanks!

--Tad

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Orion XT8i, Vixen ED80Sf, Oberwerk BT-80/45
20x80 Oberwerk Std., 12x50 Nikon AE,
10x42 Celestron Regal LX, 8x40 Pentax PCF WP