Since you're mentioning Antares, if money isn't an issue, the 21 Antares DC is noticeably superior to the others into the wind with jerkbaits. The 22 slx jdm with idc5 brakes is ok, the new Met manages line and cast farther than the slx, but the 21 Antares DC with 4X8 brakes is better........noticeably in my personal experience. I personally used to have a mental hangup with the weight and would use a Steez 100 SV to get 2 plus ounces lighter. Rod balance/comfort with the same rod didn't seem to make a difference to me after experiencing both reels on the same rod. After switching, don't find an issue, but I'm not warm water jerkbaiting all day, so I guess my preference and utility might be different than your goals. If money, weight, form factor aren't issues, 21 Antares DC imo.