Thanks arioch,
The 8X and 8AX use the same X80 Lamp - I guess the difference you are seeing could be due to the way the 8AX bezel positions the Lamp Assembly?
On the one hand, a new 8AX comes with a rapid charger (AC/DC supplies), two B90's, Hard Anodised with a Pyrex lens.
On the otherhand, the Classic 8X had a choice of about a million charging options (rapid/overnight/AC/DC/AC&DC), but it only came with one B90 (but that B90 will be a very solid performer)
The Classic 8X came with a Lexan lens that was/is prone to melting/deforming if the light is on for a length of time without free moving air to cool it, also Lexan is scratched and marked easily etc BUT a replacement lens kit is available.
I have an 8NX-BK that has served me very well.
If I was going to buy all over again, I'd be tempted by the 8X but I'd get the 8NX-YL (Yellow) so I could find it more easily.
Al