Adapting the IS system from their line of EF lenses, the Canon 14x32 IS Image Stabilised Binoculars employ a lens-shift system uses a combination of a vibration gyro-mechanism and microprocessors that detect and counter the appearance of hand-shake by moving the internal lens assembly to make the image appear steady. High-magnification optics such as this are extremely prone to the appearance of visible hand-shake, which interferes with clear and immersive views. Through the use of image stabilisation, users can enjoy high-power observations without the distracting shake, or the need for tripods or other support systems normally required to achieve steady images.
Two IS modes allow the performance to be tailored to the situation: Normal IS is ideal for moving or multiple subjects, while Powered IS improves the stabilisation when observing a single stationary subject. An intuitive two-button user interface makes choosing the mode simple and easy. The IS runs on two included AA batteries, and when not using the image stabilisation, the optic will operate as a conventional pair of binoculars.
Optically, the binoculars are built with traditional Porro prisms, and an integrated field-flattener lens that corrects spherical aberration for distortion-free views, especially at the edges. Canon's proprietary Super Spectra Coating is used to limit colour bias, lens flare and ghosting; while maximising light transmission, colour rendition, clarity, and contrast across the entire visible spectrum. With this new IS system, the close focus distance has been drastically reduced versus earlier models that use a different IS mechanism.
Performance
- Powerful 14x magnification
- Compact 32mm objective lens
- Porro prism light path
- Fully multi-coated optics using Canon's proprietary Super Spectra Coating to limit colour bias, lens flare and ghosting; while improving light transmission, colour rendition, clarity, and contrast across the entire visible spectrum
- Doublet field-flattener lens corrects spherical aberration for distortion-free views, especially at the edges
- 7-element / 6-group objective lens configuration
- 5-element / 4-group eyepiece lens configuration
- 226-foot field of view at 1000 yards
- 6.6' close focus distance is an improvement over earlier IS models
Image Stabilisation
- Lens-Shift image stabilisation system uses a vibration gyro-mechanism, in conjunction with microprocessors, that detect and counter the appearance of hand-shake by moving the internal lens assembly horizontally and vertically, to make the image appear steady
- Powered Image Stabilisation is a secondary IS system that improves the image stabilisation when focused on a single subject
- ±1.0° correction angle
- Runs on two AA batteries
Use and Handling
- Simple 2-button interface: Normal IS and Powered IS
- Large centre focus wheel
- ±3 right eye dioptric correction
- 55-76mm interpupillary adjustment range
- Fold-down rubber eyecups for comfortable use with or without eyewear
- 14.5mm eye relief
- 2.3mm exit pupil
Construction Details
- Redesigned chassis is more ergonomic to fit more comfortably in the hand
- Slip-resistant rubber armouring provides a sure grip
- Weight: 27.3 ounces
