What makes the difference in spinning reel quality? Like why is the Stella so expensive and why would it be better than any other spinning reel? I assume bearings have much to do with this, but does it have to do with components such as the bail system? Also I have heard drag is a huge factor but how smooth can it really be. I am looking to buy my first quality spinning reel and I want to know what I should be looking for.

Thanks for any input.

-Dylan

Strong, smooth, silent and reliant.

The best value in the Shimano line-up is the Stradic 2500FI,

ICAST "Best In Class". The FI incorporates many features that

were previously available only with the Stella.

8-)

Strong, smooth, silent and reliant.

The best value in the Shimano line-up is the Stradic 2500FI,

ICAST "Best In Class". The FI incorporates many features that

were previously available only with the Stella.

8-)

I got my first Stradic last year.....Just got another one a few weeks ago and will get another next year.....The 2500' can be found on Ebay for around $125 new if you wait and look around, but its still very worth the retail tag of $150....Try this reel out before deciding!

For me the first thing that comes to mind is user friendly. Spinning reels are known for line twist and tangles. The better quality spinning reels do a much better job controling line twist problems. They also last much longer.

You didn't say how much you wanted to spend.  But the Team Daiwa Advantage-A seems to me to be a very good alternative to the Stradic FI.   It's super smooth, manages line very well, and doesn't have the bail problems the Stradic has.  

What makes the difference in spinning reel quality?

Less line friction and twists, weight, overall smoothness and probably casting distance