This is because the objective lens diameter (the lens pointed away) is significantly greater than the eyepiece lens, usually relatively small.

Opera glasses are designed to give a brighter image then regular binoculars. Opera glasses have a single focus wheel to focus both eyes simultaneously. This is what gives them the chic, streamlined look and compact size. Opera glasses have roof prisms-meaning the prisms are lined up in a single barrel for each eye. Opera glasses are designed to be small-small enough to fit easily into a pocket or purse. One drawback to higher magnification is the shakiness in the viewed image.

Higher magnifications show much more detail, yet with a smaller field of view and a less-bright image. Zoom binoculars allow you to zoom from weaker to stronger magnification. Magnification varies depending on their intended use. Typical binoculars have magnification ranging from 8x to 12+. 4x opera glasses show 228 ft and 8x show only 126 ft. For example, at 1000 yards, 3x opera glasses give a field of view is 385 ft. Why such low magnification? 3x magnification is preferred because it allows the viewer to see a wider view of the stage-close enough to see the details, but not so close as to miss the big picture.Īs magnification increases, field of view decreases. Typical uses are outdoor related, such as camping, bird watching, hunting, viewing sporting events and observing nature. ‘Regular’ binoculars can be used for just about anything.

Opera glasses have also been used as a status symbol throughout the ages. Opera glasses are designed specifically to be used in indoor settings and viewing theatrical performances, such as opera, ballet, musical theatre, and musical performances.įine arts patrons use the glasses to see the fine details and facial expressions often missed by the audience. This brief synopsis describes what sets opera glasses (aka: opera binoculars, theatre binoculars, theatre glasses) apart from the more-common binoculars. Opera glasses are binoculars-but very specialized binoculars. What is the difference between ‘opera glasses’ and ‘binoculars’? It depends on how close you look.

Best opera glasses