Kowa TE-11WZ II (Zoom) vs TE-80XW (Fixed) Eye Pieces

[AkMtnRunner]

I've been using a Kowa 883 with the TE-11WZ (25-60x zoom) eyepiece for years now and beginning to seriously wonder if the TE-80XW (fixed 35x) might be the better tool for me. I've revisited Matt Cashell's review of the 66a with both eyepieces, which is a great read.

Has anybody else gotten experience comparing these two eyepieces? I've found that even with my 88mm size Kowa, I only notice slightly more detail beyond 40x than 25-35x as the image darkens and spend most of the time there. Since that is the case, I am curious if I should simply maximize the brightness and FOV at 35x with the fixed.

 

[SikaSeeker]

Try them side by side if possible. Do you find yourself needing the zoom? If not you've probably answered your own question. Incredible wide angle view