Upgrade 8x Binos - Rangefinder AND Quality?

[Kal-Elk]

Currently running 8x42 Zeiss Conquest HDs on my chest and love them (along with 15s on a tripod). Toying with the idea of switching to a unit with an integrated rangefinder but one that will ALSO meaningfully upgrade visual quality, and sticking to 8x. Are there any options <$2k? Would love Zeiss Victory RFs or Swarovski EL Ranges, but would rather not drop $3.5k.

Coming up with

1. Leica Geovid 8x42 R @ $1.6k
2. GPO Rangeguide 8x50 @ $1.8k
3. Meopta Optika LR 8x50 GD @ $1.9k
4. Leica Geovid HD-R 2700 8x42 @ $2.2k

Anyone have experience with how these might compare to Conquest HDs?

 

[handwerk]

I can only speak to the Leicas, I've owned both of those models in 10x and they are very impressive both in RF and optically. I currently still use some older 10x42 HD-R Geovids and remain very pleased with them. Although I have other Binos (sSwaro EL 8.5x42, 12X NL pure's) the Geovids give up very little to my eyes.
I have looked through the conquests yet never owned them, but suspect you can assume the Leicas will be a nice step up in both form and function.

 

[tdhanses]

I’ve owned 10x42 and 8x32 zeiss conquests, I currently own Leica Geovid HD-B 2200’s in 10x42 and they are much better optically then the Zeiss. I bet you could find a used set of Leicas for $1500 or under.