So, I decided that my next reel is going to be my first dive into JDM Shimano.  I know everyone says go for the Conquest 50, it isn't out of the running...but I'd prefer to try a low profile frame first.  These are the ones I was considering.  What would you guys recommend first?

 

Exsence DC

Scorpion DC7

Aldebaran 50HG - Leaning towards this one!

 

Or is there any others I should take a look at?

 

Conquest 50

Have you every had one in your hand? The whole issue of round reel versus low profile goes out the window with this one. I'm not a big guy have average size hands & the 50 just feels right at home. It's worth trying one if you have never had one in hand.  

I would get the 100HG 2014 conquest. Amazing palm-ability of 50s with much improved inner workings. The older conquest does win in looks though.

I'd wait for the metanium dc. The 6.5oz weight appeals me

So many options... 

 

Im always gonna vote Conquest 50/51 because i think its the best reel they ever made. Plus, there gonna run out eventually, might as well grab one while there still somewhat available...

I wouldn't waste money on the scorpion DC. I'd go with the Exsence, true JDM that isn't available here, and an unbelievable value for what you get.

Exsence DC is my vote. Just ordered my second from Japan Angler and I love this reel.

The 2014 Conquest is a spinnerbait/chatterbait machine that will also crank deep and slow-roll swim jigs with a big paddletail.

The 2013 Metanium is a fantastic all-rounder that comes in a variety of retreives. If you want to jig, worm, or frog, this one has the high speed ratios to match.

I'd go with one of those depending on need.

The Met DC will be JDM only and from what I've read elsewhere the DC system has been advanced on that reel. Lighter weight and newer tech on the DC system then the Exsence. I read elsewhere that some patent/trademark issue prevents it coming the the U.S. as a global product.

Scorpion

So many JDM choices now - and especially now with the favorable dollar/yen conversion rate.

 

To help you decide - can you think of a technique that you don't have covered right now and associate a reel with that? OR, is there a technique that you really ENJOY the most and using a JDM reel for that technique might make the experience even more enjoyable?  I think you have to narrow it down to what you want to use the reel for which will help you down-select all the JDM goodies out there.

 

Of those you mention - if you really want to play with DC - I'd go Exsense.  Want uber-light weight - the Aldebaran.  Want the latest and greatest that combines elements of both - save a little more for the Met DC.

 

Of course, being a round-reel fan...everyone should have a Conquest 50/51...

 

Good luck in your decision !

 

 

So many JDM choices now - and especially now with the favorable dollar/yen conversion rate.

 

To help you decide - can you think of a technique that you don't have covered right now and associate a reel with that? OR, is there a technique that you really ENJOY the most and using a JDM reel for that technique might make the experience even more enjoyable?  I think you have to narrow it down to what you want to use the reel for which will help you down-select all the JDM goodies out there.

 

Of those you mention - if you really want to play with DC - I'd go Exsense.  Want uber-light weight - the Aldebaran.  Want the latest and greatest that combines elements of both - save a little more for the Met DC.

 

Of course, being a round-reel fan...everyone should have a Conquest 50/51...

 

Good luck in your decision !

Well your post and CGrinder has given me some guidance.  I am most likely going to pair it with my GLX 894C or 854C.  Maybe this will help narrow it down.  After further thought the Aldebaran may have a problem balancing with this rod, so I may have eliminated this one out of the running because of it being lighter, 

 

I probably will get a conquest eventually, I hear so many people rave about it.  Just not sure if this is what I want yet, I am researching on doing my own custom rod later this year (requested for my 41st birthday).  So maybe that will be the time to get a Conquest 50.  I

Well your post and CGrinder has given me some guidance.  I am most likely going to pair it with my GLX 894C or 854C.  Maybe this will help narrow it down.  After further thought the Aldebaran may have a problem balancing with this rod, so I may have eliminated this one out of the running because of it being lighter, 

 

I probably will get a conquest eventually, I hear so many people rave about it.  Just not sure if this is what I want yet, I am researching on doing my own custom rod later this year (requested for my 41st birthday).  So maybe that will be the time to get a Conquest 50.  I

Go for a conquest DC. The newer silver ones. Works of art with the DC whine.

Not to sound too ignorant, but what does DC stand for

Not to sound too ignorant, but what does DC stand for

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