Hey guys and gals,  was just wondering what your thoughts and experiences were regarding the difference between magnetic and centrifugal braking systems on baitcaster reels?

It seems that cost doesn't relate as I have seen high end reels with each system.

Rich

Does this electronic braking system have a computer chip in it.  Smitty

I havent seen these reels yet.


Rich i havent used a magnetic brake but ive really enjoyed my curado's in all weather conditions.  
I dont think that ive had to pull out all the clips but a couple of times and that was in severe wind conditions, and the brake worked great.

Rich,
One has brakes with magnet, the other just has brakes.
HA!HA!!
RB

Dave,
Here is a cut & paste from the website that explains it all.  You can access the info at Shimano.com and follow the links.   
The memory is stored in a very small chip that dictates to the capacitor (also small) how much current to discharge to the brake every 1/1000th of a second.  You should see the highspeed camera film of the line comming off the spool during a cast.  It looks like a weaving cobra as the chip detects the speed of the spool and applies a minute amount of stored current. 

"Traditionally, centrifugal and magnetic braking systems have been employed for baitcasting reels to control the speed of spool rotation and the energy from casting for better accuracy and to minimize backlash.
Introducing the revolutionary Calcutta TE® DC (Digital Control). This is the first, self-energizing digital braking baitcasting reel featuring 8 levels of pre-programmed braking modes based on lure and casting type.

During initial casting, the energy generated by the rotation of the spool is stored and used to power the digital braking system for subsequent casts. The Digital Control system of the Calcutta TE® DC is a self-energizing system, recharging with each cast. "

Casting Information
 

Casting Information
Typically, it takes approximately 0.07 seconds to reach maximum spool rotation from the point of release.

Reels, which employ conventional (Centrifugal or Magnetic type) braking systems to prevent backlash, operate efficiently around 20000rpm. With the digital braking technology employed by Calcutta TE DC, it is possible to allow spool
Rotation to exceed 30000rpm (50-70% increase) and still maintain excellent line control for longer, more accurate casts.

The Calcutta TE DC’s digital braking control system is designed with a very small time lag before the first application of the brakes. This is
done in order not to disrupt the energy used to generate initial velocity. Subsequently, digital technology that can apply brakes at intervals of
1/1000 seconds controls the line tension and stabilizes lure’s projectory thru the air.

By simply setting the 8-level selector dial, The Calcutta TE DC allows access up to 8 different modes of pre-programmed braking patterns based on lure type and casting method. Based
on a 6-second duration cast, the digital technology behind the DC digital braking systems allows the brakes to be applied in intervals of up to 1/1000 second. As the brakes
are activated, the digital brake system emits electronic beep sounds reinforcing the sense of
digital control.

With this technology, each of the 8 pre-programmed modes provide even better control of the feeding of the line by applying the
ideal amount of braking force at critical intervals. As a result, it is possible to achieve long, accurate casts [Initial spool rotation may exceed 30,000 rpm] with consistent backlash control. The application of fine braking control by the digital braking system quickly stabilizes
the spool rotation by quickly dropping it to around 20000rpm. Subsequently, digital control
varies the frequency of the brakes applied, minimizing the dreaded backlash.

The great thing about the Calcutta TE DC model is that reel maintenance is just like any other baitcasting reel, requiring no special treatment or maintenance.


   
Product Features
Digital Circuit is sealed to prevent moisture
intrusion and corrosion.
Braking Frequency: Updates Every 1/1000 of a Second.
Precision Machine Cut Aluminum Frame.
Rigid Aluminum Sideplates keep gears in precise alignment.
High Efficiency Gearing (HEG®).

Smooth & High Power Dartanium Drag Performance.

Super Free Pinion Gear System (SF™) eliminates friction between the pinion gear and the spool shaft for increased freespool.
Lightweight Aluminum Drilled Spool System to further enhance freespool.
Large Diameter Super Duralumin Main Gear for increased durability.
Super stopper anti-reverse.
10BB + 1RB A-RB® Anti-Rust Bearing.
0.35mm micro pitch Cast Control Knob witha high precision click sound.
Cold Forged Handle.
Recessed reel foot for excellent palmability and
comfort.

You too can own the PINNACLE of casting reel technology for only $499.95.



   

Rich,
The arm is back to normal for now after that Cortizone shot I had in January.
Russ

Rich
As with most fishing tackle you will get a wide variety of responses (commercials) ,
it boils down to what you like and what you are comfortable with.
Glad I could make things easier for you

Darn,  it looks like I created a monster.  Thanks for that info Smitty...but...but...but...I do have a City job and still can't afford $500 for a reel.  Wake me up when they are down to about $450...HAHA.   I guess I will wait till you have had a couple for a few months and then buy from you for $75.

Glenn,  I would like to see that reel.  At about $100 it don't sound too bad.

Ron,  I got both and have to learn to use each

Rich

I'll guess that the electronics in the reel are waterproof.
I'm also assuming it runs off of batteries.

So when the batteries die, what happens?  Are the brakes applied with a dead battery, or are the brakes "loose" when the battery goes dead?  How easy is it to change the battery?


And if there's no battery, how the heck does this thing work???