I have Leupold 10x42 Wind River Cascades Model. Best I've had. Crisp, clear, let in a ton of light! Right in the middle of your budget. You won't be disappointed. Also, to me the Leupold seemed clearer than the Nikon Monarch. That's the only reason I went with Leupold. When I bought I was actually down to deciding between the Nikon Monarch and the Leupold Wind River Cascades. Put Leupold and Nikon next to each other and see which you like best. Also, make sure you can take them outside the store and look at things in natural light with them.