Saw this reel at dick's today.  Haven't heard much about it but I think it would work on my low budget frog setup.  They have it on sale for $50.  7.1.1 ratio and 6 bearings.  Anybody here used one or know how well they hold up?  http://www.dickssportinggoods.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3986258

I've READ that the lower price Daiwas can't compete with the lower price Shimanos.  Only hearsay.  I'd like to know the answer myself. Dick's is about a mile-an-a-half down the road.

i want to say it has a plastic frame and not an metal one.. butt next time i go in dicks ill double check it

I've READ that the lower price Daiwas can't compete with the lower price Shimanos. Only hearsay.

You may have heard it backwards ;D

Although the Takara feels pretty smooth, you might want to consider a Cabela's Tournament ZX while they are still on sale for $49. I've found my Tournament ZX to be almost as smooth as my Tierra and it feels more refined than my Exceler. Plus, the ZX has a spare spool and the Takara does not. Without a spare spool, you might as well consider a mid-level Sheemano ;D