The world's first digital low profile baitcaster, the Shimano Calais 4x8 DC (continued)
 

Ergonomics: Though it sounds strange, the best way to describe the Calais DC’s unique profile is “sexy.” While the lines are not as clean as a standard Calais CL200A, the new reel looks much more hi-tech with the spiral drag star and finely detailed knobs. Unlike the Antares DC the Calais DC has a full sized handle, complete with Power Grip II septon knobs. These oversized knobs and the longer handle make sense when you consider the reel’s blazing fast gear ratio. While they increase the overall weight of the domestic version they also help make the reel more ergonomic, especially when it comes to wrist and finger mashing high-speed retrieves.

The Calais DC looked right at home on our Megabass test rod

Adjusting the cast control systems is easy, and even though anglers will have to open the sideplate to change modes Shimano’s quick access design makes this a no brainer. We found the quick access design on the Calais to be more secure than the one first offered on the Chronarch B. Once the plate is open making adjustments to the mode settings takes but a split second, and fine tuning the setting with the external switch can be done without even looking down at the reel. The only area where the Calais gets negative marks in terms of ergonomics is sheer overall weight. The Calais DC looks like a solid piece of metal, and there isn’t mush plastic on this reel inside or out. In addition the forged handle is even larger than the import version, and as a result the reel weighs in at 9.5oz.

The Calais DC pitches quite a bit better than the Calcutta DC

Angler’s may not realize to what extent Shimano actually went to refine the settings on the Calais DC, in fact we didn’t fully appreciate it until we broke each component down and inspected them on their own. For example, the drag star is supported on a spring mechanism so unlike other reels where altering the drag setting changes the distance between the star and the handle the ported swept star on the Calais DC always remains directly against the handle, making it effortless to make adjustments at any time. The cast knob features a red highlight to make it easier to identify ultra fine adjustments. The reel features asymmetrical design on the spool window to optimize comfort and access to the spool. All of these are examples of the lengths in which Shimano went to design and build their flagship baitcaster.

Testing the "A" (Accuracy) mode with short pitches

Price & Applications: In terms of performance the Calais is just about as good as we have ever seen. Shimano’s precision engineering coupled with their leading edge technology helps push the Calais well into “Enthusiast” territory. But all of this does come at a price, and that price is $649.99 per reel. This is not a cheap reel, in fact it’s the most expensive baitcaster available from any of the Tier 1 reel manufacturers. While the price tag is a hard pill to swallow for even hardcore anglers the reel does offer something unique. In terms of technology the reel is unbeatable, there is nothing else like it on the market. But not only that…the reel is a true “flagship” in every sense of the word, and represents the “Rolex Yachtmaster” of not only the Shimano lineup, but all the world’s baitcasters. While the 650 dollar price tag is going to be prohibitive to many anglers, those that are looking for a product that stands apart from the competition will undoubtedly still find the Calais DC irresistible. The Calais DC is shipping now, and will be available just about everywhere Shimanos are sold.

The red marker on the spool tension knob helps anglers make minute changes to their settings

Warranty & Service: Shimano prides itself on providing industry leading service and support to customers, but wants to go even further when it comes to premium products like the Calais DC. What Shimano doesn’t know is we tested their service hotline with two covert test calls. The first time we called we played the newbie role and asked extremely basic questions about operation, service, and tuning. The second time we called we played the role of the veteran angler and pretended to have a problem with the cast control system. In both cases the representatives were extremely friendly and in both cases they offered us the option to have the reel sent in for further examination. We felt the customer service representatives were equally courteous and knowledgeable, but best of all we felt they were empowered by Shimano to really take care of the customer.

The Calais DC was born to be a bass reel, and 3lb largemouth felt like nothing on the HEG gearing

When you purchase a reel that cost’s as much as the Calais DC it better come with the best warranty in the business. When you register your reel you are enrolled in Shimano’s “Platinum Premier Warranty” plan. This gives you a two year warranty against manufacturer defects, which is twice the industry average. As an added bonus Calais owners will receive coupons for discounted maintenance ranging from half price all the way to free. To keep anglers on the water Shimano guarantees a 48 hour service turnaround (shipping excluded) so that you will never be without your reel for more than a single week at a time.