T2DM

Yes Sir, that is the main reason why I have both.

I just got my 22 Bantam, for comparison I have the 18 Bantam and 20 Metanium all USDM. First thing I've noticed with the 22 Bantam is how smoother and cast further it is compared to my 18 Bantam, kinda like I was using my Metanium but in a Bantam Body...Weird!!!

Finally got mine in today, took it out for a few and I can already tell it's better than my 18 Bantam for sure.

Exactly!!! Look at their entire fishing tackle catalogue, it's pretty impressive!

It is again another re-badge doyo reel!

Sadly, it does not have the MM gears, it has the HEG gearing like the SLX series. it's smooth but not as smooth compared to reels equipped with MM gears, but the new SLX 70 DC XT comes with MM gears, i really like the 17 scorpion DC/Curado 200i platform so might get the SLX DC XT when it comes out. I did however converted one of my 17 scorpion DC down to 6.3 gears from 7.2. it now feels smoother and better as a cranking reel.

I think both serve a different purpose IMHO, i used to have the DC but trade it in for a rod cause i really didn't enjoy it as much as my other reels, often times it's really restrictive as far as casting distance when using FC or in setting 3 but does really well using braided line even at 1 setting. it falls a little short when it comes down to versatility, ergonomics was another issue for me but it's a nice reel don't get me wrong, i just prefer my 17 Scorpion DC over it. now the bantam is just something else, i just love everything about it and i use them with just about any lures, any lines. but if you really want a DC reel then the new Scorpion DC would be a good buy.

They're just Shimano power knobs, I just got used to them and they're so comfortable to me that I even replaced the T knobs that came with my spinners.

This may not mean much to most of you guys but man, I love those handle knobs!!!

I would say pretty much any online retailer, I got one pre order at TW, can't wait to get it.

This is from Shimano Japan Website: more stretched and stronger. strong barsatiles that penetrate through. The bantam that creates a new world of StrongBersatile has evolved further. The NEW Bantam is equipped with the 150th size Magnum Light Spool III. φ3/19mm and the spool is larger than the previous model, and the compatibility with the centrifugal brake is enhanced by narrowing, and by moving the line guide a little forward, a stretch cast feel reminiscent of 19 Antales has been acquired. The high-rigidity core solid body incorporates low-protein's first infinity drive. The significant reduction in rotational resistance enables powerful and direct winding, greatly improving the ability to detect changes such as water flow resistance received from the bottom and lure. It is one that leads strong versa tiles up a notch. It doesn't matter I'm gonna end up buying the darn thing regardless.

I wouldn't say they're entirely identical, the 71 still feel smaller and sits lower, but if you are in the market for one and have to choose between the two then the 151 is definitely the one to get, with more line capacity and a new 6 pin version of SVS it's a better value for sure. There's something special about the 71 and 151 will not replace the 71 but just another new reel IMHO.

I doubt it at that price point, looks like graphite to me, star drag looks like CI4+. MGL 70 I think has a CI4+ handle side plate.

Got mine in today from TW, as expected good quality, smoooooth, looks really good, palms almost like my 71k and I like it so far. I used to own 201k and DC but sold/trade them both after a while, they were nice reels but they just feel "bulky" to me for some reason, anyway can't wait to try it out soon.

I order parts directly from Shimano a few times and it always worked out good for me. I just ordered some more yesterday and free shipping until Dec. 26th I think. Good Luck.

I agree ^^^!

I'd say yes it should hold enough line. I have a Curado 70k MGL loaded with 14lb sniper and it's plenty fine for bass fishing. This should give you a good idea on line capacity and probably close enough.

Brass gears and definitely my next reel purchase for sure. In my opinion Shimano combined the Curado 200k & Curado 70k MGL and the result is the 150MGL plus 6 pin brake weights instead of 4. It should palm like most SLX. Most of my reels are 150 size and never had a problem with line capacity and also I never had any problems with the micro module gears. Good Luck.

They're almost identical in a lot of ways, They're both built like a tank and they give you that round reel feel. Both are insanely smooth on cast & retrieve but the Bantam feels a little bit more solid than the Metanium as you may already know one is aluminum and the other is magnesium. They both cast really well but I feel that the metanium cast a little bit better specially when using lighter lures maybe because of the MGL 3 spool. So basically Shimano rebuilt the Bantam with slightly different body made out of magnesium, gave it MGL 3 spool, added two bearings and called it the Metanium B if that make sense. The weight difference between the two are noticeable but not a big deal. The Metanium really shines when pair with a higher end rod like the poison adrena, the combo is so light and sensitive, it's unbelievable! The Bantam will balance most tip heavy rods out there better than the Metanium. It was very hard for me to choose which one to have, that's why I ended up having both and I'm glad I did cause they're both excellent but IMHO the Metanium is a better reel.

Now I have to add more!...?

Plus one here for the Chronarch MGL one of my favorite reel, But I would strongly consider trying out the new Curado 150 MGL since it's a bit cheaper and should have a newer MGL spool, it would definitely be my next reel for sure. I've been wanting to try out the SLX series but I don't want to own another reel without the X-Ship. I use to own the old Casitas in the past and can definitely feel the difference.

I have the Curado 200k and the Curado 70k MGL. I'll bump it up a notch, think of the bigger picture and get the new Curado 150 MGL, I don't have one yet but planning on getting one soon. It should cover all three reels that you've mentioned above. Versatility is very good thing when starting out Bass fishing, you will run into a situation where you want to do a little experiment, mix and match fishing gear etc. You better off buying something that you can use regardless of rod specs, to certain extent of course. I've been there and done this and that. It'll save you money in a long run, but that just me. Good Luck.

Excellent Setup! Mine is on 7' MH.

JDM and USDM Metanium B info are all over youtube, I have the USDM version and by far the best reel I own. A lot of people buy them at Ebay for a lower price, you must be very careful where you buy them cause of the warranty eligibility. Serious warning! Once you own one, you will want to buy more of it and might develop OCD later in life!?

I have the Curado 70k MGL and planning on using it this year for a dedicated jerkbait setup, I could already tell it will do really well with jerkbait just by using it for weightless fluke, don't have the Curado 150 MGL yet but would rather have it than the 70k cause of the line capacity and maybe lighter. It would do MORE in my opinion compare to the 70k, 70k is an awesome reel though!