The SVS MD system makes use of both these systems to maximize casting distance and control of baits across the entire range. The centrifugal system is designed to be adjusted via eight centrifugal weights that are located on the far side of the spool, and accessible underneath the non handle side sideplate. Adjustments on the fly to the magnetic system can be made via an external dial on the handle-side sideplate  which is located above the spool tension knob.

The centrifugal brakes are located under the B-Side sideplate. They are numbered to make it easy to switch corresponding brakes on either side of the spool. Also notice the interlocking levelwind gear on the left which is tied into the spool

One of the most interesting new features on the new Calcutta Conquest MD is the inclusion of a level wind interlocking mechanism which makes use of a connection gear on the b-side of the reel that links the level wind with the rotation of the spool. The implementation required some very clever mechanical engineering as dial type magnetic brakes typically interfere with the position of this connection gear, and why Shimano has moved the magnetic system to the opposite side of the reel. So why go through all this effort?

The magnetic portion of the SVD MD Tune system is able to be adjusted on the fly via an external dial on the A-Side sideplate

By interlocking the levelwind with the rotation of the spool there is the potential to stabilize the line flow during battles with big fish, and especially when the drag is activated, as it keeps the angle between the line peeling off the spool and the levelwind smaller. Though it does take a bit of energy to move the levelwind on cast this shouldn't be an issue when fishing the larger baits that this reel is designed for, and the tracking levelwind has the potential to aid with reducing sharp angles as line flows off the spool. By implementing both the hybrid SVS MD casting system and the interlocking levelwind Shimano's goal is to deliver both improved casting control and line management when battling bigger fish.

During casting and when the drag is pulled the interlocking levelwind tracks back and forth to improve the angle of the line as it is peeled away

In addition to these two features the Calcutta Conquest MD includes many of the familiar elements that make the company's round reels so refined. This starts with the machined aluminum Hagane frame which eliminates flex and isolates the reel's internal gears. Inside anglers will find the finely cut MicroModule gears and Infinity Drive, which is a design that supports the pinion gear with the spool shaft versus a bearing on the spool side. This combined with beefed up pinion gears improves support rigidity so that anglers can wind under load without compromising the gear strength and their long term durability.

The new Calcutta Conquest MD feature new round style knobs that are similar to the aftermarket knobs that anglers often swap out on their swimbait reels

When a fish is on the line the Calcutta Conquest MD's proven cross carbon drag will come into play. We have observed this drag system to be refined, easily adjusted, and reliable. This new reel is rated for 18lbs. of pressure which is more than we recently saw in the Curado DC 200 and also a nice bump from the Calcutta Conquest 300 A which outputs 15lbs. of max drag. The difference on the Calcutta Conquest MD is that this drag will work in conjunction with that interlocked levelwind to provide even more confidence to really crank down on big fish during extended runs. When fish are running this new reel will provide an additional signal to the anglers with integrated audible drag.

The new reel features an even more compact b-side design to improve palming ergonomics

One of the biggest reasons some anglers select low profile baitcasters for fishing swimbaits over round reels is that they are easier and more comfortable to palm. The new Calcutta Conquest MD looks to close the gap with their S-Compact body design which reduces the palming side plate (B-side) by roughly 25% versus the A-Side plate. This new frame has been designed to be more compact than previous generation Calcutta and Conquest reels and Shimano engineers really factored in palming comfort with the new design.

Like the Calcutta and Conquest reels that came before it the new Calcutta Conquest MD is beautifully machined and built like a tank

Specs, Price and Availability: Both 300 and 400 size Calcutta Conquest MD reels come in a 7.5:1 Gear Ratio which pull in 40 inches of line per crank. This is a good all-around speed for many applications, and well suited for fishing many big glides and wakebaits. Round reels are typically not known to be lightweights and the 300MD reels weigh in at 12.7oz. and the larger 400MD weighs 12.9oz., both of which is slightly better than average for a reel of this size and capacity. Most anglers that like fishing round reels are not bothered by the weight as they balance out larger freshwater and saltwater sticks and feel more solid in hand, and under load.

Though the new Calcutta Conquest MD looks like it has been purpose built for fishing swimbaits it should also be ideal to targeting the biggest freshwater species, and doubling as a killer inshore reel.

The all aluminum frame is designed for the harshest elements and extra provisions have been to provide excellent water resistance to the inside bearing of the drive gear shaft, and the reel also makes use of the company's best S A-RB bearings which are specially treated and feature shields on both sides to help keep out contaminants like salt and sand.

The Calcutta Conquest MD's new cast control and interlocking levelwind make it a very compelling reel for fishing oversized lures and swimbaits

The Calcutta Conquest MD 300 and 400 size reels will be available in both right and left hand retrieve and all reels retail for $599 dollars. The new reels are entering production and will start becoming available at retailers in the Spring timeframe. While $599 is certainly an investment when it comes to reels that are built to last it hard to bet against any Shimano reel bearing the Calcutta and Conquest names.

These new reels are instantly recognizable as Calcutta/Conquest reels, and the addition of the oversized fighting knobs on the more compact frame give the new reels a more enthusiast and purpose built look. This new generation has been designed to be a monster of a round reel, capable of sending baits 10 ounces and up and doing battle with bass, stripers, muskies, and even larger inshore species.

The new hybrid centrifugal and magnetic SVS MD Tune cast control system and interlocking levelwind are very exciting additions to the series and it will be really interesting to see how they affect both casting performance and retrieve feel in the heat of battle. I can't remember the last time I was this excited for a new circular reel, as the gold standard may just have been raised once again. It is a good time to be a swimbait angler.  

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