Japanese

[blackmagic33]

I'm looking at getting either the japanese daiwa zillion or maybe shimano's metanium....anybody know any websites where i could maybe pick one up or any knowledge on them at all would be appreciated....oh and if anybody knows what the svs 4X4 braking system in the shimanos are (are they just the japanese version of centrifugal braking system)

[islandbass]

I'm no expert, but here is some information on the SVS 4x4 system:

http://www.japantackle.com/Topics/brake_system.htm

[Raul]

The Japanese Zillion is exactly the same reel as the US version, only differences are:

The knobs in the Japanese version are screwed in to the handle and not riveted as in the US version.

The weight difference is insignificant ( 0.4 oz )

And this detail not found in the domestic version:

Japanese Zillion on the left, US version on the right

Price difference including shipping is $74 dollars more ( JDM ) for the slower version and $84 dollars for the faster version. Don 't know about you but I 'd rather invest those 75-85 dollars in something else if anyway I 'm gonna get the same reel.

Which Metanium ? XT ?

When GinRinPeche was blowing away it 's inventory getting a Metanium XT was a good investment you save about 60 to 70 dollars if you purchased the Metanium XT with them ( they included free shipping ), now at current prices the only reason I would purchase a Metanium is that it weights an ounce less than the domestic version, but it costs 70 dollars more than the Chronarch including shipping. BTW, the Metanium XT doesn 't have the mirror coat you find in the Chronarch, the reel is painted.

[Redlinerobert]

Wow Raul - you are a virtual JDM encyclopedia.

[Raul]

Got spoiled with Japanese stuff.  

[Micropterus salmoides]

As Raul pointed out if you're referring to the Metanium XT that is the JDM version of the Chronarch B then it is about an ounce lighter than the Chronarch B, has a clicking cast control knob, and doesn't have the Ion Plating of the Chronarch B, which makes the Chronarch B more durable. Other than that they are the same. At one time, in 2006 I believe, they could be bought for $200. Late last year and into the early part of this year they were selling for $240, which is when I bought two. Now, with the struggling economy they are $300+.

[blackmagic33]

the metanium xt i was leaning towards is there another japanese reel that you would recommend goin with instead of the zillion or metanium

[blackmagic33]

what about the zillion pe is it strictly for braided line...would mono or floro be alright with this reel

[Raul]

the metanium xt i was leaning towards is there another japanese reel that you would recommend goin with instead of the zillion or metanium

How much kash we have to spend ?

Any particular use you want to give to the reel ?

With how much weight you feel comfortable ?

There are many variables to take in consideration, you want a lightweight reel with an all around use, not too expensive, great caster, nice looking, small profile, good drag you can go with the Alphas Type F, I 've got that reel and I can recommend it, you can also do a search at e-bay for a Daiwa TDZ, you can find a NIB for around 270 and it 's one heck of a reel, I 've got 4 ( two 103H and 2 105H ).

[Raul]

what about the zillion pe is it strictly for braided line...would mono or floro be alright with this reel

For that kind of money I wouldn 't think it too much, I 'd jump right on a Steez.

[Micropterus salmoides]

I'd recommend seriously looking at the Steez as well. I have two Steez 103HAs on my jig & worm rods. The TD-Z is also an amazing reel. I was fortunate to find a new one on ebay for $220 a few months back. Personally, I like the lightweight reels for jigs, texas rigs, Senkos, etc and standard weight reels for the other techniques.

[blackmagic33]

i heard that the steez's were having trouble with there spools...maybe it was just a rumor i heard and i'm lookin for something with a low gear ratio and light weight probably lookin to spend around 400ish the only problem goin with the steez is you got to find a rod that is light enough to fit it

[blackmagic33]

what rod do you have that steez on

[Micropterus salmoides]

Both of them are paired with G Loomis GLX MBR844Cs, my jig and texas rig rods.

[Raul]

i heard that the steez's were having trouble with there spools...

Nonsense.

[lubina]

The knobs on the JDM can be remove and the plastic spacers replace by  same size ball bearings. I does make a big difference.