Shimano Stella - USDM or JDM?

[immortl]

I am looking to pick up two additional Stella FK spinning reels.  I've been looking at the USDM and JDM models (digitaka) and they appear roughly equivalent.  The JDM has a few more variations available (compact versions and more options for gear ratios) and I understand the handles on the JDM versions are a tick shorter.  Does anyone know if there are other differences that I may be missing?  I am liking the cost savings of the JDM, but at this price point, what's another few bucks if something is better or better suited on the USDM. 

 

I picked up a USDM Stella FK 1000 for one of my ultralight trout rigs last spring and yeah, those are the spinning reels for me (the JDM Soare 500 is also pretty darn nice).  I started getting back into bass fishing a little this past summer and am looking to ramp up this winter and next season.  I have primarily used spinning gear over the past 30 some odd years and am refreshing my spinning rods and reels and will also add a baitcaster or two into the mix as well.  These two new Stellas will be targeted for something along the lines of NRX+ medium power rods.  Been looking at the 2500 and 3000 series, understanding the difference is only in the spool size between these two.  One for finesse/soft baits, another for moving lures (probably a conquest MBR medium power for this one).

 

Thanks,

Joe

[PressuredFishing]

S means shallow spool, SS means super shallow,  D means deep spool, LC means longcast, it is also shallow. More options than usdm market, that's not a bad thing though by any means. 3000 is heavy but will manage heavier line better, .009 Dia and lower 2500 should be okay.  

 

P.S (Stella series everything feels great, though I've found low gear ratio is smoother than high gear ratio, but again with Stella this most likley won't be problem

[immortl]

Thank you very much PressuredFishing.  That info is quite useful as I look through the model charts.

[roadwarrior]

I have both the JDM 2500 and 1000. My preference is the 1000. I have owned every series

and have never been disappointed. Earlier purchases were USDM as far as I know.  I can't

tell the difference.

[mrpao]

I own a JDM C2000s and two USDM 1000. 

The knob on the JDM version is the tiny finesse style knob. I hate it. 

I switched out all their handles for the 45mm carbon handle from the Complex XR. Lighter handle and lighter rotational feel.