Peter (T),
I've heard you say that the Aero Technium is worth 10 yards before, which reels are you comparing this with? Did you ever cast with a TS6000T/Millionmax 9000 to make a direct comparison between the reels? Before using the Shimano what where you using?
The 2007 Shimano catalogue quotes "80+ coils per upward and downward traverse of the rotor", is that 40 up and 40 down? or is it different for the up stroke and down stroke.
My concern with the Shimano and its close wrap (cotton reel style) is when line is peeling off from the back to the front, is there a restriction created by the coil immediately in front. This would be similar to the Daiwa ABS principle giving that idea some credence, and like others I'm not convinced it has any benefits. If I had some data on the Shimano I could draw a picture to explain my concerns.
Sorry for all the questions (Techy Stuff) but I am facinated by the engineering behind it all, perhaps I should chill and open a bottle of Morrisons Best Cider, but then I have to work in the morning.
One thing for sure, Shimano or Daiwa, fixed spool reel technology has come a long way from the Mitchell 498 of yesteryear.
The multiplier lads have it easy, with so much after market tuning bits.