The Standard vs The Denk II: Which Is Better?
We
are very proud of having created two world-class, large aperture
binoviewers that people all over the globe use each night in order to view The
Heavens with two eyes. Both models are certainly going to provide
observers with amazing images and we always use the same care during
assembly and collimation to ensure that strain-free merging of
astronomical images will result. But, there are differences that must
be mentioned between The Standard and Denk II Binoviewers. After
selling both models and recieving feedback based on objective
comparisons, our original contention that a discernable difference in
performance can be detected when using our best unit, the Denk II has been substantiated. How much of a
difference is there? How does this difference manifest itself during
actual use in typical night sky conditions? Is the higher price of the Denk II Binoviewer
justified by the performance gain that can be expected during it's use?
Real Differences
A
large amount of feedback from customers substantiates our findings that
the Denk II does provide a discernable boost in contrast and sharpness
as compared to
the Standard binoviewer. Is this easy to see? Many observers that have
done careful side by side comparisons have called the difference
"readily noticable". The coatings on the Denk II provide a 9% higher
overall transmission in comparison to the Standard Binoviewer Coatings.
This difference is very
analogous to the contrast gain produced by that of a 96% "enhanced"
reflective mirror compared with a Standard 89% reflective mirror. Is
this easy to see? For some it is. A review that compares the
Standard and Denk II Binoviewers can be accessed from our "Reviews"
section or by using the link provided here: Denk II vs Standard
The review was done before our Power x Switch innovations were available.
The very highly
polished surfaces of the Denk II also provide a discernable edge in
sharpness on planetary images according to many observers. Be
aware that the Standard Binoviewer certainly deserves to be ranked with
the very best 2-3 binoviewers in the world. We firmly believe that the
Standard Binoviewer is the best bang for the buck among all
binoviewers. If all of the qualities desirable in a binoviewer are
weighed such as; 26mm clear aperture, versatile patent pending Power x
Switch Systems for any telescope, top notch machining, ease of use, workmanship and customer care,
we then believe that The Standard Binoviewer has it all for a highly
affordable price point.
IP Distance
All Denkmeier Binoviewers made in the last several years have
the capability to accomodate eyes that are only 50mm in seperation.
This cabality which is narrower than competative units ( typically
having only a 55mm minimum seperation) better allows children and those
with narrower interpupillary seperation to successfully merge an image
into a single view!
Choosing
See
our Comparison Chart below. Be assured that either binoviewer must be
considered among the world's best . We would not produce a poor
performing unit at any price.
That is just not our method of doing business. Either model is
guaranteed to provide amazingly sharp and comfortable views. The
Standard and Denk II are both rigorously tested as we assemble them in
our Maryland, U.S.A. location. This accounts for our
track record when it comes to producing easy-to-use binoviewers that
allow two-eyed viewing with great comfort, not forced strain. We have
attempted to provide you with enough information so that your choice
will be easier. More basic information about our Denk Binoviewers can
be found in The Power x Switch Star Diagonal Manual.
Still Unable To Decide?
Call the Binoviewer Indecision Hotline Toll-Free at 866-340-4578 and we will do our best to talk you through it. 
Binoviewer Comparison Chart
|
Model
|
Clear Aperture
|
Coatings
|
Surface Accuracy
|
Eyepiece Holders/IP Distance
|
Case
|
Weight
|
Dust Protectors
|
Price
|
|
Most Basic Standard Same Binoviewer included in the Big Easy
|
26mm
|
MgF2
|
1/4 Wave
|
Aluminum Self-Centering & Locking (non-SCD)
IP:50mm-75mm
|
None
|
20 oz.
|
Plastic
|
$399
|
|
Standard Same Binoviewer included in all Standard Packages
|
26mm
|
MgF2
|
1/4 Wave
|
Aluminum SCD Holders IP:50mm-75mm
|
Aluminum Lockable
|
20 oz.
|
Plastic
|
$499
|
|
Premium Denk II Same Binoviewer included in all Denk II Packages
|
26mm
|
Special Dielectric Multi-Coatings
|
1/8 Wave
|
Aluminum SCD Holders
IP:50mm-75mm
|
Aluminum Lockable
|
20 oz.
|
Machined Engraved Plugs and Cap
|
$899
|