The Digital Control braking system that some of the high-end JDM reels use is confusing to me. I just got a couple of the 2013 Metaniums with centrifugals and have never used a DC reel. It sounds like the reel does all the work and you don't need to thumb the spool...is this right?

 

I actually prefer controlling the cast myself...that's where the skill comes in. Can anyone provide more info on this "latest and greatest" improvement in braking?

No, you still need your thumb. It's not backlash proof.

Not backlash proof. Still need your thumb a little . But they are sweet.

Jeff

Depends on the iteration really. My scorpion DC requires zero thumbing at all, even at the end of the cast. The downside is that it doesn't cast that far. My Exsence DC has an SP mode that was designed for night fishing and requires zero thumbing either, amazing really.. You can hear the brakes activate right when the lure hits the water. Now on the longer casting modes I have to thumb when the lure hits the water or if the bait was too light and caught some wind it can backlash.

The Shimano digital control braking is just not JDM...it's been available on the USDM Calcutta TE-DCs for years.  The DC system on the TE-DCs is the first-generation DC system with fewer braking options than the later iterations. There have now been about 6 (?) iterations of the DC system - with each iteration giving different adjustment methods and braking options.

 

Most of the DC systems still require thumb braking at the end of the cast. However, the i-DC+ system used on the JDM Exsence has a strong braking option/profile that applies extra braking at the end of the cast that is said to be practically, if not completely, thumb-free (this mode is advertised as being especially useful at night).

 

I own a Calcutta TE-100DC and a Calais 200DC and will soon have the 2015 Metanium DC.  The way I utilize the reels, I find the advantage is not the ability to make extremely long casts, but the ability to consistently, with less effort, make practical, effectively long casts. Also, DC braking has proven benefits in wind. I can throw crankbaits into a significant headwind with that TE-100DC for instance.  Regarding the advertised, extreme cast length potential, the Calais 200DC DOES have a long-cast mode but I have spent little time exploring that mode. You can get to a point where you can outcast your hook-setting range and I am more interested in catching fish than finding out how FAR I can potentially cast.

 

Are DC systems totally backlash free?  No. I have backlashes pop up unexpectedly on both the Calcutta and the Calais.  A consistent casting stroke is helpful on both of these reels to minimize backlash potential.  I have had some backlashes occur for totally unknown reasons; perhaps the optical sensor in the DC system "blinked" or something...

 

Is DC necessary? No - it's just another type of braking system.  Does DC have practical benefits? Yes.  Are the benefits worth the cost? That's up to each angler to decide.

 

AND, don't forget one other trait of the DC system - the DC whine - music to the ears...

 

EDIT:  While I was taking forever to type my post, bootytrain posted, so some of my post is redundant with his....

To answer the original question: it is if you think it is.

Nice post Goose!

Assuming the only potential negative comes from slightly higher maintenance costs? (Labor and parts)

No reel is backlash proof. You still need to thumb it. But yes I think DC's are way better than most magnetic/centrifugal systems.

Nice post Goose!

Assuming the only potential negative comes from slightly higher maintenance costs? (Labor and parts)

 

Bantam1 has stated on TT several times that the DC control modules are very robust and that few come in for service for DC-related problems.  If that's correct, then perhaps not even any extra maintenance costs.  BUT, purchase cost is certainly "higher" !  

Thanks for all the info guys...I guess I'll rely on the old thumb for a while longer considering the money I saved on the two 2013 Metaniums I just picked up. 

Bantam1 has stated on TT several times that the DC control modules are very robust and that few come in for service for DC-related problems. If that's correct, then perhaps not even any extra maintenance costs. BUT, purchase cost is certainly "higher" !

Good to know. I guess I just figured that certain reels warranted higher repair costs similar to the Stella. A DC reel is on the radar!

Good to know. I guess I just figured that certain reels warranted higher repair costs similar to the Stella. A DC reel is on the radar!

If cost is a concern, get the Exsence DC. Right now they are well under $300.

I have 2 Exsence DC's and owned a Scorpion DC before. I've had a few backlashes with the Exsence but then again when I had everything set right I was casting into 25mph gusts with no worries. I think it's worth it. If you find an Exsence with a good price, I say grab it.

If cost is a concern, get the Exsence DC. Right now they are well under $300.

Just for clarity... it was the maintenance cost that I was referring to and not the initial outlay for the reel.

Nice report, Goose

Question:

 

Do these things charge on the cast, or use batteries?

 

Josh

Question:

 

Do these things charge on the cast, or use batteries?

 

Josh

Charges while you are casting......