Which Cheap Handhelds to Get?

I am going to spring (in January) for some 80mm to 100mm Binocs, not which decided yet. Maybe the Apogee 88's.

BUT, I also want a "quick peek" pair of 8x jobs and am not going to spend much on them as I need the $ for a mount for the biggies. Also, I don't know a hell of a lot about the different brands / quality of the small ones available today.

Does anyone have an opinion, or experience with, either of these two? Remember they are not going to be my "good ones".

1. http://www.riflescopes.com/departments/129/binoculars/pentax/pentax_xcf_series.htm

2. http://www.adorama.com/MN842WP.html

Good enough for peekers? If so, which one for best quality / image?

Thanks much;
S. Sherrod

P.S.
What is "Phase Coated"?

Anyone have an opinion? Need help.

Even if both are dogs, let me know that and suggest an alternative? Don't want more than 8x for the small ones.

Maybe these instead? http://www.adorama.com/PX840PWP.html

Thanks;
S.S.

Thanks everyone for the info and advice. I think I'll get the Pentax PCF's, super sale price with the rebate.

To John Biretta;
Still got any of those neat stickers for me? It's been 2-3 years now... 8)

If you're willing to go for 70mm objectives instead of 80, check out the 15 x 70 Barskas. I got a pair last summer, and I'm totally pleased with them, particularly for the price, which was on sale locally for around $60. They're lighter than 12 x 60s I have, are well baffled, and show little distortion.