I own both the J.M. and the Shimano reels.
They both are equally as good as one another.
The J.M. reel is as smooth but I wouldn't say it is any smoother.

The JMX 1000 H reel 6.3:1, has 10 stainless steel bearings.
The key to bearings, is where they put them.

This particular reel has 2 in the knobs on the handle. 1 in the level wind and worm gear. 1 in the tension knob.

Most other reels don't have bearings in these places.

Will the placement of these bearings help the performance of the reel?
Probably so.

Are they needed for a quality reel? Probably not.

Is all I am saying is,
The hype on bearings is not all its cracked up to be.

Test of time will be the decision maker for myself in this J.M. reel.
Will it stand up to the abuse of a tournament angler.
I purchased mine in Mar.02 and they have performed as well as expected.
But like I said, Time will tell.

I own some Garcia's that have been used for over 12 years. 3 bearing jobs. Not as smooth but they have withstood the test.
Hope this helps out.

i was wondering how does the Curado compare with the abu garcia's 4600 c3 ultra casts or the eon as far as castability for pitching light lures for distance without any overruns i am new to pitching lures and currently use a 4600c3 which i love the reel it is very smooth and dependable but i just can't seem to get a great distance pitching lures .Any advice would be appreciated .Also what type of rod do you guys feel is the most sensative for under 150.00

I really like the Curado or the souped up version:Scorpion. For a good sensitive and durable rod under 150.00 You can't go wrong with an Extreme Bass Pro Rod. I think the Johnny Morris series is 149.00. I have one and I feel it is better than any Loomis I ever picked up.

I have to reply to your first statement where you said what we thought the best baitcaster is for soft plastics? I would have to say the best that I have used is the one I have now. shimano Calais CL200. This thing casts a mile with the lightest lure.