PRO BIRDER: Kowa's new TSN-88 Prominar scope series in focus

18 October 2022
By Dave Rowntree

Kowa, the Japanese optics manufacturer, has announced the launch of their latest PROMINAR sporting optic innovation - the TSN-88.

This latest release from Kowa, follows on from the brilliant TSN-99 series, which Stuart reviewed last year. This time round however, when re-doing a scope which has already been super popular for 20 years, PROMINAR optical engineers have been busy with new materials and features - and trying to eke out every last drop of colour into this scope to always deliver this natural spectacle to the observer in glorious detail.

To do this, Kowa has gone back to its roots in optical design. Roots which have now made it one of the most popular spotting scope manufacturers in the world...

Improved coatings and colours

Kowa engineers have first improved the unique optical coatings applied not only to the lenses but also the prism in the new TSN-88 PROMINAR spotting scope series.

The result is a spotting scope that delivers even higher levels of light wavelength transmission than its predecessor and most important of all, across the entire colour spectrum.

Available light enters through the objective lens and internal optics, which is then finally transmitted to our eyes via the exit pupil. The more light photons that make it through the lens, the better and more clear we can see the object at high magnification and in greater detail.

Lens coatings help to transmit the light photons entering the optic and control how the image is delivered to our eyes. Lens coating chemicals which are not perfectly balanced with high performance across the entire colour spectrum, can produce unnatural colours in the final image seen by your eye. Cool or blue tints, or possible warm or red tints are often associated with optics that have good transmission values in certain wavelengths of light – but not the full spectrum.

What you thought was a black bird isn’t. Look through a TSN-88 PROMINAR series scope and a whole new spectrum of colour and detail will be displayed. Subtle tones and hues are revealed in stunning detail and at the same time, a whole new appreciation of the nature you are viewing.

Small changes that make a big difference.

Pure fluorite crystal objective lens

The new TSN-88 PROMINAR series features an 88mm pure fluorite crystal objective lens - the true optical powerhouse at the heart of all PROMINAR flagship optics.

This unique fluorite crystal convex lens, only found in PROMINAR spotting scopes, when combined with a concave lens featuring our newly developed optical coatings, redefines the standards of colour brilliance.

This special combination not only eliminates chromatic aberration, which is one of the major causes of deterioration in viewing quality. But also increases resolution, contrast, and low light performance even at the highest levels of magnifications.

Aligning these light wavelengths in to one focal point is critical. The optimum optical material to do the job and minimize chromatic aberration is fluorite crystal.

The objective lens has further protection with Kowa’s unique KR coating which actively repels dirt, moisture, and dust from building up on the surface.

Dual tripod mount

In addition to the optical enhancements, the new TSN-88 PROMINAR series benefits from some clever upgrades to improve your experience out in the field.

A new dual tripod mounting system allows you to connect the scope to a tripod mounting plate using two securing screws. This subtle change can be a game changer when spending endless hours out in the field. No more having to re-adjust or tighten your scope to the tripod. Ultimate security, stability and mobility all day long.

The spotting scope includes a new detachable aiming site that can be fixed on to the accessory collar to assist in locating a subject more rapidly. The lens hood also features a newly designed built-in aiming site as a further visual aid.

Full 100% magnesium alloy body

The aluminium barrel formerly used on the TSN-880 series has now been upgraded, meaning the new TSN-88 PROMINAR benefits from a full 100% magnesium alloy body. This sophisticated alloy offers all the strength benefits of metal while retaining a lightweight body.

The outer body is fully sealed to protect it from the elements. 100% waterproof and nitrogen filled. As well as being built to last a lifetime, the TSN-88 PROMINAR is now even lighter and stronger.

The new Kowa TSN-88 series is available to buy from official dealers now.
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