The Abu Garcia Revo DS8, a Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) reel, is a lightweight baitcasting marvel meticulously crafted for superior performance. This in-depth review delves into the features and performance of this high-end reel, examining its striking design, innovative engineering, and overall fishing capabilities. Collaboratively designed with professional angler Dai-suki Aoki, the Revo DS8 promises a refined fishing experience unlike any other.This review will explore the reel's key components, including its lightweight magnesium frame and C6 carbon side plates, the innovative MagTrax 3 braking system, and the unique shallow spool option. We'll compare its performance and weight to competitors like the Shimano Metanium and Aldebaran, analyzing its suitability for various fishing styles and applications. Ultimately, we aim to determine whether the Revo DS8's high price point is justified by its exceptional quality and features.
Pros And Cons
- Very light due to magnesium frame and C6 carbon side plates
- Quiet ceramic hybrid bearings
- Carbon components on handle and drag star
- Clicking drag
- Comes with an extra shallow spool
- Magtrax 3 brake system (two banks of magnets)
- Aluminum spool shaft
- Solid thumb bar with no slop
- Cork knobs have some filler imperfections
- Clicking spool tension not as precise as higher-end brands
- Shallow spool is not as shallow as dedicated bait finesse spools
- Relatively expensive (around $300 to import)
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Unboxing and First Impressions
The Revo DS8 boasts a striking design: a sleek, shiny black body accented with tasteful chrome and blue details. The cork knobs immediately catch the eye, a unique touch compared to the usual red and black color schemes. This reel’s aesthetics are undeniably appealing, offering a fresh take on the typical fishing reel design.
This particular model is a signature reel designed in collaboration with Dai-suki Aoki, a professional bass angler competing in the American Bass Elite Series. While his name isn't prominently displayed, his expertise is evident in the reel's meticulously engineered components.
The initial feel is one of lightness and quality. The magnesium frame and C6 carbon side plates contribute to its remarkably low weight. This promises excellent handling and reduced fatigue during extended fishing sessions.
Technical Specifications and Features
The Revo DS8 shares similarities with the Revo LTX, utilizing a magnesium frame and C6 carbon side plates for exceptional lightness. Unlike the LTX BF8, which is a bait finesse reel, the DS8 is a more versatile bass reel, suited for a broader range of applications.
Key features include nine plus one bearings, though the speaker mentions ten in the video. These bearings are likely ceramic hybrid bearings, contributing to the reel's quiet operation and smooth performance. The reel also includes a clicking drag, a feature increasingly sought after in baitcasters.
The reel's unique design includes an extra shallow spool, a welcome addition for anglers who prefer this configuration. The shallow spool is an added value, providing more versatility. The inclusion of the MagTrax 3 braking system provides refined cast control.
Weight and Dimensions Comparison
The Revo DS8 weighs in at a remarkably light 4.8 ounces, making it comparable to the Shimano Aldebaran 30. This lightness enhances handling and reduces strain during prolonged use.
A direct comparison with the Shimano Metanium reveals a noticeable weight difference. The Metanium is significantly heavier at 6.16 ounces due to its all-magnesium construction compared to the DS8's carbon side plates.
The spool weight is also a key consideration. The Revo DS8's deep spool weighs 9.8 grams (with bearing), while the shallow spool weighs 9.4 grams (with bearing). These weights are not exceptionally lightweight but are still quite manageable.
Brake System and Spool Analysis
The Revo DS8 features the MagTrax 3 brake system, an improvement over standard MagTrax systems. This system offers more refined cast control and provides two banks of magnets for more even braking.
The spool shaft is constructed of aluminum, a feature that the reviewer notes as unique to JDM Abu Garcia. This lightweight aluminum contributes to the overall reel's reduced weight.
Spool dimensions are 32 millimeters. The deep spool and shallow spool are both well-suited to a range of fishing applications and the design of the spool interaction with the MagTrax magnets is well-considered.
Conclusion and Overall Assessment
The JDM Abu Garcia Revo DS8 is a high-quality, lightweight baitcasting reel with many desirable features. Its performance is anticipated to rival that of the Shimano Metanium, a testament to its engineered components and design.
While the price point is high (approximately $300), the quality and features justify the cost. The reel's smooth operation, refined brake system, and lightweight construction combine to create a tool that will be excellent for a wide range of angling activities.
In comparing the Revo DS8 to the Shimano Metanium, both offer excellent performance. The DS8 excels in its lightness, while the Metanium provides a robust feel. Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual preferences and fishing style.