What is the main advantage of the Kowa TSN-88A's pure fluorite crystal lens?
The 88mm pure fluorite crystal objective virtually eliminates chromatic aberration (color fringing). This results in exceptionally accurate color reproduction and higher contrast, allowing you to see fine details and true-to-life colors that would be obscured by false color in scopes with conventional glass optics.
How does the dual focus system on the TSN-88A work?
The focus knob has a two-step mechanism, one step for quick focusing and one for fine focusing. When the subject is well out of focus, the quick focus brings it into focus 3 times faster than the fine focus; the fine focus is for fine focusing and slight adjustments, with a smooth transition between the two. Do not turn the focus knob beyond its turning range, as this damages the focusing mechanism.
How does the angled TSN-88A differ from the straight TSN-88S?
The TSN-88A is the angled viewing version and the TSN-88S the straight version of the same TSN-88 PROMINAR, with the same 88 mm fluorite crystal objective, 5 m minimum focus, 95 mm filter thread and dual focus. The angled TSN-88A is 13.4 in long and weighs 3.21 lb. Kowa does not rank one body type above the other, so the choice is a matter of personal preference.
What are the benefits of the included TE-11WZ II eyepiece?
The TE-11WZ II is a high-performance wide-angle zoom eyepiece. It gives the Kowa TSN-88A a versatile magnification range of 25-60x, allowing you to use low power for scanning and high power for detailed study without changing eyepieces. It also provides a comfortable 17mm of eye relief.
Can I use other eyepieces with the Kowa TSN-88A body?
Yes. The Kowa TSN-88A uses a bayonet mount and accepts the Kowa eyepieces Kowa lists for the TSN-99, TSN-88, TSN-77 and TSN-66 scopes. This includes the TE-80XW Extreme Wide Angle eyepiece (35x on this body) and the TE-20H Long Eye Relief eyepiece.
How do I attach a camera for digiscoping with the TSN-88A?
With no eyepiece attached, turn the protective ring on the accessory mount counter-clockwise to unscrew it (it can only be removed when no eyepiece is attached). Then attach the appropriate Kowa digiscoping adapter, such as the TSN-PA7 for DSLR and mirrorless/MFT cameras or the TSN-DA10 for compact Micro Four Thirds and mirrorless cameras; both are used with the TE-11WZ II eyepiece.
What kind of tripod should I use with the Kowa TSN-88A?
Kowa advises a stable tripod, since observing with a hand-held spotting scope is difficult because of image blurring. The tripod mount has a removable screw, so it fits 1/4-inch or 3/8-inch tripod heads. The scope body weighs 3.21 lb and the TE-11WZ II eyepiece 0.80 lb.
What does the KR coating on the TSN-88A's objective lens do?
The KR coating on the objective lens repels dirt, moisture and dust from building on the surface. Kowa says that, together with the fully waterproof and nitrogen sealed shell, it makes the scope reassuringly rugged.
What is the purpose of the 95mm filter thread on the TSN-88A?
The 95mm filter thread lets various types of filters be attached in front of the objective lens. Kowa's TP-95FT protection filter, made for the TSN-99 and TSN-88, carries KR coating to repel dirt and moisture and helps protect the objective lens from harsh environments.
How does the Kowa TSN-88A compare to the larger TSN-99A?
The TSN-99A has a larger 99 mm objective, which gathers more light. The TSN-88A is the more compact and lighter of the two, at 13.4 in and 3.21 lb. Both use a pure fluorite crystal objective, dual focus and the same Kowa eyepieces.
What is covered under the Kowa Limited Lifetime Warranty?
The Kowa Limited Lifetime Warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship for the lifetime of the product to the original owner, when purchased from an authorized North American Kowa retailer, and Kowa requests product registration within 30 days of purchase. It does not cover damage from misuse, unauthorized repair, or normal wear and tear. Lens caps and cases are covered for their lifetime but not for accidental loss.
