For some reason that Cardiff has caught my eye. I have all Diawa JDM reels and very satisfied with my arsenal, hope to get years of trouble free service from them. I own some older Japan made Shimano Stradics in bass fishing sizes, and after many years of hard use they started binding. Now I did not service them (send off to professionals) properly, did keep them relatively cleaned (surface) and oiled, but that was about it. I know it can be a Chevy/Ford type thing as to favorites, but I am willing to try a newer JDM Shimano in hopes it would be in line with the Diawa at the comparable price point. I read the reviews of both, listen to the discussions both for and against each brand, but do not have both dogs in hand to speak, so I cannot even race them . What are your thoughts on the Cardiff if you also own a comparable Diawa?