Shimano Launches New 70 Size Metanium DC and SLX Baitcasters

Introduction: Shimano is kicking off 2024 in a big way by going smaller with the introduction of new Metanium DC and SLX baitcasters in compact 70 sizes. Both of these new reels feature numerous updates driving versatility and performance enhancements, and the Metanium 70 represents the lightest and most durable DC reel to date.

The new Shimano Metanium DC 70A will officially launch this week at the Japan Fishing Fest show in Yokohama Japan and will start shipping in the US this Spring (as early as Feb)

New Year, New Baitcasters: As Shimano continues to expand their unified global lineup the launch of the new Metanium DC and SLX 70A baitcasters is timed with their official unveil at the Japan Fishing Fest tradeshow this week in Yokohama Japan. Bob Mahoney, Freshwater Product Marketing Manager for Shimano North America Fishing commented "Shimano's lineup of low-profile reels continues to evolve and both new models feature a robust selection of technologies tailored to help bass anglers find success in any situation." Both of the new reels feature compact lightweight designs but are targeted at very different audiences with the SLX A addressing the mainstream segment and the Metanium DC catering towards enthusiasts.

The Shimano Metanium DC will feature a compact CoreSolid magnesium frame construction. The reel weighs only 6.2 ounces.

Metanium DC 70A: The Metanium MGL Series has been one of my favorite Shimano reels since they debuted as they offer a rare blend of lightweight and solid feel, proving that magnesium continues to be a great material choice for high-performance baitcasters.

This newest Metanium continues the tradition of a one-piece CoreSolid magnesium frame which is designed to bring additional strength and impact resistance while eliminating flex in the reel's body, all with the goal of improving both cranking feel and power under load.

The reel features a stealthy finish with silver highlights that channel the JDM Antares DC

What I find the most exciting about this new Metanium is the inclusion of the upgraded I-DC5 digital braking system in such a small frame. The I-DC5 control is embedded in the open port of the one-piece frame and can be fine-tuned externally on the fly. Anglers will find two separate dials, the inner dial enables anglers to select the type of line they are using (Nylon, Fluorocarbon, PE Line).

The I-DC5 digital cast control is more refined than the I-DC4 system and features two layers of adjustment

The outside dial adjustment allows anglers to increase the amount of brakeforce and adjust for various lure types. The system makes use of an updated ring magnet so that brake force can be more evenly applied and allows for the maximum startup revolutions to be increased by over 10% at the start of each cast and providing just enough force throughout the cast to deliver a more seamless and long cast each time. We look forward to seeing how this really translates to real-life performance in actual testing.

The Met DC features the MGL III spool and most refined MicroModule gearing

The new Metanium DC features similar styling to the MGL that has softer edges than the very angular Bantam Series. The new reels also get the MGL spool III which is designed to further improve casting performance by reducing startup inertia. The new reels also get the latest micro module gear design and cross carbon drag system which is rated at 11lbs. of pressure. The Metanium DC 70A reels will be available in 7.1:1 and 8.1:1 gear ratios in both right and left hand retrieve and will all retail for $499.99 each when they start making their way to e-tailers at or around Feb 5th.

Targeting more value-oriented mainstream anglers the new SLX A is a lighter more refined SLX

SLX 70 A: While the Metanium DC 70A is likely the reel that enthusiasts will be most excited about the SLX 70A will be the baitcaster that will sell in the most volume due to the price point and targeted mainstream audience.

The SLX 70 has an aluminum frame

Designed for finesse presentations to close-quarter power techniques this new aluminum based SLX also gets the MGL III spool and SilentTune to reduce spool vibration during the cast. Instead of DC braking the SLX will utilize the proven SVS Infinity braking system that utilizes brake weights that make contact with a raceway during the cast. This inner friction is what applies the pressure on the spool for precise and manageable casting, and is also able to be externally adjusted.

The SLX 70A also makes use of a MGL III spool but with a more traditional SVS Infinity cast control

The new SLX features an enlarged Cross Carbon drag that is rated at 12lbs. of pressure. Though the SLX is made out of aluminum it still weighs in at a very light 6.9oz. and will be available in both 7.2:1 and 8.2:1 gear ratios. 

It wouldn't be a SLX without some blue highlights

In terms of styling and ergonomics the SLX 70A features a similar squared off design to its predecessors an maintains some blue highlights but features a gunmetal grey finish that looks higher-end than the matte black design on previous SLX reels. Each SLX 70 A reel will retail for $149.99 each and will start becoming available in early February.

The SLX 70A only weighs 6.9 ounces and will retail for only $149