In reply to Post #14
What was so bad about them?

I use 5500 xtd for spod and marker work and 5500 xsc for main reels currently and have no issues with them. line lay could be a bit better but I believe that can be fixed with adding/removing washers. must admit I've only really ever had shimano so can't compare to other manufacturers

Shimano need to bring out a technium 5500

In reply to Post #18
They won't,they say the demand is not there for them.I have asked the reps loads of times

In reply to Post #19
It's a crying shame

i have had XTB, XTC and now have XTC Ci4s all on 5500

the first two weren't great at all. but for the money the Ci4s for me are superb and cannot fault them (i have 4). although i know some dont agree.

In reply to Post #21
I've had a set of the XTB Ci4 and have found them excellent.

In reply to Post #21
So for the non initiated amongst us, what's the difference/upgrade with the ci4 reels?
I have read all the blurb, but how does that translate to the actual usage of the reel.

In reply to Post #14
When I bought my xtbs in 2008 they were £109 each.
I could never justify in my head the delta in cost for daiwa, I do own a set of emblem z for my large water set up, ok they are old a bit clunky though I'm ok with that.
If anything I do feel daiwa take advantage of the market with their pricing..
If blind tested would we really be able to differentiate?

In reply to Post #23
I tried a set apart from them being a bit lighter I struggled to see anything really different, maybe on the 14000 spool the line lay is better ?

In reply to Post #22
I agree had mine for at least a couple of years, no problems whatsoever

In reply to Post #23
The ci4 does not flex on the stem on a big cast like non ci4 reels.