Whats So Good About DC?

[smallies24/7]

Specifically the Excense DC? Im looking to pick one up, as this reel receives rave reviews. What are the advantages of the DC braking system, and what makes this reel so popular?

[Delaware Valley Tackle]

DC is another type of braking. Supposedly more progressive and requiring less user input(thumb control) making for longer backlash free casts. I don't think it's a cure all or a replacement for proper setup and casting technique though. It's also something different that tackle enthusiasts find appealing.

[kickerfish1]

Maico1 had a nice post about his opinion on DC reels. He owns quite a few and has fished them quite a bit so I would take his opinion as a trustworthy one. I am not sure he has used the Exscence DC but he knows his way around the DC braking systems.

The only DC reel I own is the Exscence DC. In fact I now own two of these. Here is why I like the DC system:

1. All external brake adjustments without having to take a side plate off

2. Various modes that allow the user to cast a variety of baits in a variety of conditions

3. The addictive DC whine

4. Most of all I find the break system to be the equivalent of what the term "smart" means to cars, phones, TVs etc. How many casting reels can you cast a respectable distance on without applying your thumb at the end of the cast when your bait hits the water or feathering the spool during the cast? How many reels have modes for different types of line? I think it allows for the most customization for the user to dial in what they are using while the reel does some of the work/thinking.

Why the Exscence DC.

1. X Ship gearing for a incredibly smooth yet powerful retrieve

2. Blazing fast gear ratio

3. Same platform as the Core 100 or Chronarch 100D which were widely popular reels/frames

4. Easy to palm

5. Fairly affordable around $250 for all the bells and whistles

6. Puts a smile on your face as it is a true joy to fish

Why not the Exscence DC

1. Reel is a bit heavier in weight than most high end reels

2. Only one gear ratio so not suited for apps requiring low IPT

With that said the reel isn't noticeably heavy or bulky when paired with a 7 foot plus MH or Heavy rod.

[Hogsticker]

The whine and the fact that it clicks when a fish is taking line are pretty awesome. Something different for folks who want just that. The Chronarch D was one of the finest reels Shimano ever made, so the question is why wouldn't you want one? 

[John G]

I personally don't think that most people get a DC for longer casts. They get a DC because it's a DC. Sure, longer casts are great but in the end, it's just a longer cast. With the DC reels, excluding the Scorpion DC, when you make that longer cast, you get that unmistakable whine. My understanding about the whine is the DC system charging itself for the next cast. I have one DC reel, a Conquest 50DC. Is it perfect? Not by a long shot. But it's a Conquest 50DC and that alone makes it worth owning. If you are the type of guy that can appreciate something that is unique, then get yourself a DC. If not, don't.

[Maico1]

8 hours ago, kickerfish1 said:

Maico1 had a nice post about his opinion on DC reels. He owns quite a few and has fished them quite a bit so I would take his opinion as a trustworthy one. I am not sure he has used the Exscence DC but he knows his way around the DC braking systems.

The only DC reel I own is the Exscence DC. In fact I now own two of these. Here is why I like the DC system:

1. All external brake adjustments without having to take a side plate off

2. Various modes that allow the user to cast a variety of baits in a variety of conditions

3. The addictive DC whine

4. Most of all I find the break system to be the equivalent of what the term "smart" means to cars, phones, TVs etc. How many casting reels can you cast a respectable distance on without applying your thumb at the end of the cast when your bait hits the water or feathering the spool during the cast? How many reels have modes for different types of line? I think it allows for the most customization for the user to dial in what they are using while the reel does some of the work/thinking.

Why the Exscence DC.

1. X Ship gearing for a incredibly smooth yet powerful retrieve

2. Blazing fast gear ratio

3. Same platform as the Core 100 or Chronarch 100D which were widely popular reels/frames

4. Easy to palm

5. Fairly affordable around $250 for all the bells and whistles

6. Puts a smile on your face as it is a true joy to fish

Why not the Exscence DC

1. Reel is a bit heavier in weight than most high end reels

2. Only one gear ratio so not suited for apps requiring low IPT

With that said the reel isn't noticeably heavy or bulky when paired with a 7 foot plus MH or Heavy rod.

Very well said....

 

[Maico1]

10 hours ago, smallies24/7 said:

Specifically the Excense DC? Im looking to pick one up, as this reel receives rave reviews. What are the advantages of the DC braking system, and what makes this reel so popular?

I do not own a Exsence DC which is a 3X4 digital system with external adjustments and able to be had for under 300 dollars. Which is a very good combination if you are someone who enjoys and embraces the benefits of technology while out on the water. My advice to you is get one and try it out and see for yourself....If you have some specific questions PM me and I will be glad to help you.

[MIbassangler30]

12 hours ago, kickerfish1 said:

Maico1 had a nice post about his opinion on DC reels. He owns quite a few and has fished them quite a bit so I would take his opinion as a trustworthy one. I am not sure he has used the Exscence DC but he knows his way around the DC braking systems.

The only DC reel I own is the Exscence DC. In fact I now own two of these. Here is why I like the DC system:

1. All external brake adjustments without having to take a side plate off

2. Various modes that allow the user to cast a variety of baits in a variety of conditions

3. The addictive DC whine

4. Most of all I find the break system to be the equivalent of what the term "smart" means to cars, phones, TVs etc. How many casting reels can you cast a respectable distance on without applying your thumb at the end of the cast when your bait hits the water or feathering the spool during the cast? How many reels have modes for different types of line? I think it allows for the most customization for the user to dial in what they are using while the reel does some of the work/thinking.

Why the Exscence DC.

1. X Ship gearing for a incredibly smooth yet powerful retrieve

2. Blazing fast gear ratio

3. Same platform as the Core 100 or Chronarch 100D which were widely popular reels/frames

4. Easy to palm

5. Fairly affordable around $250 for all the bells and whistles

6. Puts a smile on your face as it is a true joy to fish

Why not the Exscence DC

1. Reel is a bit heavier in weight than most high end reels

2. Only one gear ratio so not suited for apps requiring low IPT

With that said the reel isn't noticeably heavy or bulky when paired with a 7 foot plus MH or Heavy rod.

Very well said. I agree 100%, except for the fact that I own 1 Exsense DC. I would not hesitate to buy another if I needed another reel. I will add, buy from Digitaka. 

JC

[Logan S]

Specifically for the Exsence DC, I think it's great becasue I'm a huge fan of the Core100/Chronarch D, (who isn't?)... You can get that same platform with faster gearing, X-Ship, and DC bakes for the same or less money.  It's really a great value at current pricing, even if it didn't have DC (IMO).  

The only other DC reel I own is the Scorpion DC so I'm not the most experienced DC User, but I will say that at the current prices there's no reason not to try one of the more affordable models if you have the means and interest.  A few years ago the cost would have probably negated the benefits for me personally and prevented me from buying....When TT reviewed the Scorpion DC it was between $350 and $450, but now that the exchange rate is in our favor it can be had for around $215....

DC is a cool thing to have.  It's not astronomically better than a standard reel so if cost/performance ratio is really important to you then it might not seem worth it...But if you're like me and many others who like to have cool stuff even if it might not be 100% necessary, jump right in .

 

[bassbassontherange]

The cult of the Exsence DC is among us in this thread. 

Simply put, you get one of the best reels ever made with the bells and whistles of DC braking and x-ship. From what the consensus has said in other topics, this is one of the best DC systems available, with more adjustability than most other DC reels. It's a steal at its current price point. What other reel would you rather have for $250?

I fish because it's fun and relaxing. A DC reel just makes it more fun. Will you catch more fish? No, probably not. Will you enjoy your time on the water more? Yeah, you probably will. 

That's the bottom line for me.

[Silas]

At the price from Digitaka I couldn't resist. Best $240 I've spent. 

   I also have a Conquest 100 DC from a forum member and find it a fantastic smooth caster. 

  I don't NEED either one but find myself really liking to throw both!  Gives me great pleasure. 

  And, in such, adds to the whole fun of fishing experience.  

[OK Bass Hunter]

The whine, it's addictive.