Know what you mean (see my first post in the thread). I had a Curado on order, but cancled at the last minute. Just couldn't buy another Shimano bass reel. Bought my C4 and C3 instead and love em. I work at Dana Wharf, so not all of us love Shimano. I have Crusaded against them for 3 years now on the boats, it's like a voice in the wilderness. Good thing there is some choice in the market place. Perhaps, competition will help them to improve. The new Calcuttas might be a step up. But, they cost 25% more, and are unproven. I admit the Curado seems to be a decent reel, but for 30 bucks more you can get 2 Garcias. That's enough now, I need to get some sleep. BTW, I work at Billy's Big Game on friday afternoons, stop by and say hi.

Amish Ed