Thanks Chris, I greatly appreciate your experienced input. It will help me make a much better informed decision. What a great forum!

Thanks for all the links Naturepics43. It seems that optical performance comparisons are hard to come by, though I have had someone tell me privately that one example of the current 378-804-3 tested better than one of the older models.

Thanks for your input Henry. The only stated difference I have found for the newer model 20x objective is similar to what you show for the 10X. The nose is more recessed in the 378-804-3. Maybe the optics are the same.

Brad

Hi All,

Can anyone tell me the difference between the current model 378-804-3, and the older model 378-804-2? I assume it has been improved in some way.

Thanks

Many thanks, I will explore some of these lower cost options!

Rik, Thanks for your clear explanation. Is it safe to assume that a Canon 100mm f2 telephoto would be likely to get good results? I would prefer to use a Canon 135mm prime however they are quite a bit more expensive. I have been using a Tamron 70-300mm zoom (set at 200mm) with my 4x Nikon objective ...

Hello all. I am rather new to this hobby, and find that my Nikon 10x CFI infinite objective experiences significant vignetting when used with a Canon 28-135mm zoom as a tube lens. This is on a Canon T5i camera. The zoom is set at 135mm and focused at infinity at f 5.6. I can address the issue using ...

Ploum's micromount images are incredible! Micro-minerals can often be found at well known collecting localities such as quarries or mine dumps. Mineral shows can be a good source though most dealers do not pay much attention to micros per se. Sometimes small, inexpensive specimens can have good micr...

Beautiful images and minerals!

Hi All,

I'm a mineral collector from Tennessee. Recently decided to try my hand at macro and micro photography...bought a macro lens and a cheap stereo zoom scope and having fun with it. Results are not great so far but I'm hoping to learn!