I looked through a pair and was impressed with the image clarity. So with no opportunity to cross compare with higher end Euro's etc. What is the general concensus?

To save $400+ over Zeiss, Swarovski, Leica and Nikon, the Bushnell Elite 10x43mm binoculars are a pretty good value at their respective price point. They are comparable to the Leupold Gold Ring yet somewhat lighter. You might want to look at the Stokes DLS and Vortex Razor as well.