Curado Enlightenment Please!

[5/0]

What is the difference between the Curado SLX 150, Curado 150 DC, and the Curado 200K?

Across the descriptions on these reels I see terms like X-ship, micro module and 1-DC4. What does this all mean?

The 150DC and K have X-ship, but one has 1-DC4 and the other a micro module.

The SLX 150DC has 4 external brake options.

With the DCs, how does digital cast control work? All my older Shimanos use centrifugal brakes.

 

Thanks....Joe

[JustJames]

This should help you.

 

BTw, the SLX and Curado are different class reel. Curado considered higher class, most sold and workhorse of shimano with better components like micro module gear (smaller teeth on main/pinion gear to make it feel smoother while reeling) and x-ship (two bearing support pinion gear that help stabilize spool when loaded) both come with DC brake system, SLX 150 DC and Curado 150 DC. 

The line up like now is 

Curado - Curado K series and 150 DC

SLX - SLX 150, SLX 150XT(external fine tune adjustment), SLX 150 DC. 

[newyorktoiowa57]

IMO The Curado platform Is the best Value in the Shimano lineup.  The SLX  platform is smaller and cheaper but it lacks the technology that the Curado K and DC have, namely X-Ship (Bearing supported Pinion) and Micromodule Gearing (smaller better meshed gears), and as a consequence does not feel as refined under load.  The gearing on the Curado K is the same as oh the more expensive models in the USDM lineup, save the Antares. 

[DanielG]

I've had the Curado DC for several months now and I've loved it. I don't have a ton of experience with other bait casters but this one is nice. When properly adjusted for the lure you're throwing it just doesn't backlash, even casting into the wind. I know some people do have backlashes. But, if adjusted using a certain formula, it doesn't. After getting it right I've cast a thousand times and don't use my thumb. Not one fuzz ball in that time. Very satisfied with it.

[The Bassman]

10 hours ago, Bass_Fishing_Socal said:

This should help you.

 

BTw, the SLX and Curado are different class reel. Curado considered higher class, most sold and workhorse of shimano with better components like micro module gear (smaller teeth on main/pinion gear to make it feel smoother while reeling) and x-ship (two bearing support pinion gear that help stabilize spool when loaded) both come with DC brake system, SLX 150 DC and Curado 150 DC. 

The line up like now is 

Curado - Curado K series and 150 DC

SLX - SLX 150, SLX 150XT(external fine tune adjustment), SLX 150 DC. 

Good summary, James. Saved me a lot of typing. Thanks.

[FishTank]

I have both the Curado K and the DC.  I have fished the SLX but not the DC version.  The SLX is a smaller reel not as smooth or as powerful as the K and DC but is a nice reel none the less.  It would be a great reel for someone who is just starting out with a bait caster.  I don't think the DC version is worth the jump in price when you can get the Curado K for close to the same money.  

 

The K by itself is a great reel.  It would be a great workhorse that you can get a lot years of use out of.  The DC, in my opinion, is slightly smoother, easier to palm, and the DC casting control is fantastic.  My only gripe with the DC is that I don't like using braid on it.  I have tried it twice and just doesn't cast as well as it does with FC.  I am not saying don't use braid on this reel though.  I just like FC better. 

 

So far, this is how set up the DC.....  I setup the cast control knob as usual.  Then as far as the 1-4 settings goes..

 

   1. Wind to your back or heavier baits.

   2. Pretty much this what I use 90% of the time.  I have had zero backlashes when using a 3/8oz crankbait

   3. Wind and lighter baits

   4. Heavy wind and pitching

 

There are also instructions in the manual as well.  I just ignored them and worked out my own set of guidelines.  Also, the DC aspect of this reel seems to improve over time.  

[5/0]

Thanks all! The video and your input helped a lot! That DC braking system concept is right up my alley! So the only difference between the Curado K and DC is the 4 external adjustments on the DC?

 

Thanks again....Joe

 

 

 

[DanielG]

Curado DC foolproof setup.

Use the 2-4 setting as per instructions. I use 2 for braid.

 

Set the tension knob so that if you jiggle the pole a bit the bait falls a bit with each jiggle. Cast in any conditions. No enganglements. Works every time. You have to reset for each different weight bait.

[JustJames]

5 hours ago, 5/0 said:

Thanks all! The video and your input helped a lot! That DC braking system concept is right up my alley! So the only difference between the Curado K and DC is the 4 external adjustments on the DC?

 

Thanks again....Joe

 

 

 

Yes, with DC you only have to worry 4 adjustment 1 free spool (a lot of thumb require) 2 braid long casting with thumb need when lure hit water 3 FC more resistant good in windy situation and 4 skipping super control with no thumb need but super short distance.

 

The DC reel to me only benefit when using in super windy condition or when using lure shape that is not so aerodynamic. With K you have 4 pin centrifugal brake plus 1-6 fine tune adjustment. This can work with any situation DC reel can do or even better if you have a good train thumb and know how to adjust the reel and spool tension. 

A lot ppl will tell you to set 2 brake on and go from there, this is so in the past with old VBS system( linear centrifugal). The new system,I prefer all 4 brakes on and adjust dial according to lure weight/shape and situation. Believe me a little bit change on external dial will increase/decrease control tremendously (. For example 4 brake on and dial at 1, you would get as good distance as 2 brakes in old VBS system, but after you adjust dial to 4 you can cast into wind without a problems or 6 with a little bit more of cast control you can skip even better than DC reel.