I don't know why one braking system would be so much better than another. Are we really saying shimano is better to learn on because of there braking system? I am not afraid to say I like daiwa, but learning how to tune the braking system you reel has is very important and takes a little experience. The cheap black max from wally world was easy to tune and worked OK after a little clean and lube. Facts and opinions are part of the game but should not be used interchangeably. The lews speed spool I used one time was so solid I did nothing to it all day and handed it back after the day was done. I don't have any but they seem very solid and easy to use.