The Zeiss Terra ED is a whale of a binocular at the price point. I can tell you, that after a side by side, actual comparison with the Monarch 7, that I would likely go with the Zeiss. After another side by side with the Terra ED and the new Conquest HD, I will tell you that the Terra is closer than many will be able to believe. I'm not a big Nikon fan either and I'll say that if I happened to have the Monarch 7, I'd use it and be happy. I'd also say that side by side and with the nit picker out, the Monarch 7 may have an overall edge, however that will have to wait for a time when I have both in my possession for long enough to evaluate them properly. I have used and reviewed most of the $400-600 binoculars out there and frankly my opinion is that the Monarch 7 is optically in the middle of that pack.
Another thing I have come to believe is that at any price range, ergonomics will rule the day. It matters not who makes it or what you paid for it. What matters is how the eye relief works for you, how the eye cup extension works for you, how the eye cups fit your face. A good binocular is like a properly scoped well fitting rifle. With either one you should be able to pick a target, close your eyes, mount either the binocular or rifle and the target needs to be right there in the center of the field when you open your eyes. This is the basis for the try before you buy philosophy. Buy an expensive glass that does not fit your face and hands properly, and you won't like it as well as a lesser glass that fits like it should.
Spend what you can and buy one you like. I does not really matter who makes it. You are the one who needs to be satisfied with it. As far as I can see either the Terra ED or the Monarch 7 represents a reasonable starting point.
