The E series Curado's and Chronarch's share the exact same frame, nothing "new" or "improved".

I meant a "new" frame from the old Chronarch, whoops! Thanks for clarifying.

Kinda the same way a 69 Charger is much better than a 2013 model. Older models were made with tighter tolerances, better parts and overall nicer feel. I have no basis for the knowledge of feel on the older reels though. All is from what I've read from some respected members here and other forums.

That's just simply not true. It's a huge misconception; especially in the automotive industry. I work in automotive manufacturing and I know first hand that parts quality has improved and tolerances are tighter and tighter every model change. Now, as far as Shimano's reels, I cannot say. But, as someone who works in manufacturing and deals with suppliers, I will say that if something undergoes a minor model change and uses a lot of the last model's exact parts, those parts are most likely created using the same process and tooling. For a supplier (may or may not be Shimano) to re-cut tools and dies in order to create new parts is ridiculously expensive. So to do so to create lower quality parts would be illogical. I'm not saying it can't, won't or doesn't happen, I'm only saying it doesn't make sense.

I meant a "new" frame from the old Chronarch, whoops! Thanks for clarifying.

That's just simply not true. It's a huge misconception; especially in the automotive industry. I work in automotive manufacturing and I know first hand that parts quality has improved and tolerances are tighter and tighter every model change. Now, as far as Shimano's reels, I cannot say. But, as someone who works in manufacturing and deals with suppliers, I will say that if something undergoes a minor model change and uses a lot of the last model's exact parts, those parts are most likely created using the same process and tooling. For a supplier (may or may not be Shimano) to re-cut tools and dies in order to create new parts is ridiculously expensive. So to do so to create lower quality parts would be illogical. I'm not saying it can't, won't or doesn't happen, I'm only saying it doesn't make sense.

No problem man, just wanted to try and make sure we were on the same page.

I just got my first e series shimano the other day; it's a curado 200e5 (got it used). It is a sweet reel, and feels very solid. I love the loud, metal on metal click it makes when re-engaging after a cast. My lew's does not sound as nice at all. I haven't got to cast it much cause it is on my cranking rod, and i haven't cranked much lately.  Also, I have heavy mono on it cause that's all i have right now and that won't do to great for cranking. Once i get some fluoro it will be a sweet deal!

 

Nice! Never owned an E series Curado... well, perhaps I do in the white E series Chronarch. Either way, great reel(s). My Lexa is pretty nice, too, but not on the level of the Chronarch, obviously.

Good thread.  I have pretty much owned most of the reels mentioned, and just have to say wait until the JDM Metanium comes State side, I'm basically getting rid off my reels to make room from Revos, to Zillions, to Sols to Chronarch Ds, they can't touch the micro gear technology and smoothness. Really like the CI4, but haven't used it in the field yet.

Darren, read thru this thread again since at least one someone added a comment.  I didn't think about it originally, but I see weight (lack of) is important to you as is being able to cast relatively light baits.  Best I can tell from searching a few minutes ago is a 4.75" Finesse Worm weighs .2 oz.  If the hook weighs .05, then we are talking about a 1/4 oz. weight.

 

I've been using some reels that I hadn't tried yet when I posted before.  A TD-Z 105H is listed at 6.2 oz., a Carbonlite (gold one) at 6.7 oz., the new Carbonlite at 6.9 oz., an Alphas 103 at 6.4 oz.  Your Chronarch 50E is listed at 7.1 oz.

 

I don't know about the new Carbonlites, but the gold Carbonlite will throw a 3/16 oz. Shad Rap just as far as a tuned TD-Z 105H (in my hands).  The 105H can be gotten for less than the Chronarch 50E.  I bought 2 of the Carbonlites as a package deal for $110.  Definitely one of my better buys.  I only have 2 casting rods rated for 1/8 oz. or lower lures, so the Alphas hasn't been tried with a 3/16 oz. Shad Rap yet.  Currently have it on a 7'3" *** MF.  This is an awesome reel.  If I remember correctly, it is also suppose to do pretty well with lighter baits.  I'll have to give it a try on my Expert.

 

I am not suggesting you run out and sell that Chronarch.  I am giving you a couple more options that fit how you fish in case you would like another reel or two.  (Who doesn't? )  I have to say that I am really impressed so far by the gold Carbonlite.  Haven't caught a fish with it yet (No surprise as I have been practicing at the river boat ramp.), but it was amazingly easy to dial it in with that 3/16 oz. Shad Rap on my Falcon Expert Light.

I know I couldn't help myself, but last night I was browsing japantackle.com and drooling commenced when looking at the JDM Shimano Aldeberan BFS (http://japantackle.com/Shimano/Shimano_Aldebaran_BFS.htm).

 

8.0:1 ratio and 2 gram casting weights?! Be still my beating heart!

 

Thanks for the info, New. I looked at the gold CL reels, never bought. If money were no object, I'd have at least two of the Aldeberan BFS reels. Only thing I find lacking in my 50e is reeling speed. Prefer a 7.0:1 ratio...

Wow!  Just over 5 ounces.  Sweet.  Need a kidney?