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I have used a heap of different binos, including my 22x60 Takahashi's (not being made anymore).
The MB Ultras that were mentioned earlier are very good: and many people compare them very favourably with the Fujinon's (which are basically the reference standard). These are also sold as Orion "Ultra", Astro-Physics, Williams etc; simply re-branded. Another Chinese-made series that are surprisingly good for the price are the "HG" series; also available through Andrews. You can't really go wrong with the Pentax SP series, or the Olympus DPS1 or Nikon Action or Aculon series, to mention a few porro-prism types. Generally porros are better than roof prism binos at the same price point, because they are easier and cheaper to manufacture to a given quality.
If you look at the roof types, the Nikon Monarchs are very nice, but more expensive than the Aculon or Action series.
Vanguard Endeavour series are excellent (they are their top-of-the line, better than the "Spirit" series mentioned earlier), and compare well with the really high-end stuff, such as Swarovski, Zeiss or Leica, especially given that they are only 1/4 to 1/3 of the price, and especially in their latest version IV. Shop around if you want these: prices vary a lot!
(and the Canon IS and Fujinon IS are amazing, although the Canon vary a fair bit acc. to their aperture etc.)
Happy to talk via PM if you want any more info.
All the best,
Dean
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