I'm after my first pair of observing binoculars, too. I must admit to considering the Barlow zooms, as well! After more research I realised I needed better quality, but low price is a big factor, so I'm looking at some 20x80 from AOE - AOE have good reviews in these forums
http://www.aoe.com.au/aoe80lw.html
However, their website's not been updated since Aug. 2009, and after a month there's still no reply to my emails. This is their only contact detail listed, apart from a PO address. Does anyone know if AOE are still in business? Does anyone have contact details for them? Thanks!