Someone's obviously taken offense to the JM Perth Video...wonder why
I watched the video again. Liu was using a JM 250g/Boss 870 combo while the other bloke was using a Saltiga 6500 exp/JM 500g combo. It's quite clear to me that the Saltiga 6500 exp/JM 500g is the heavier & bigger outfit.
There are also a lot of reports out there about OH reels with poor free spool although these reports are mainly from guys who cast with their reels. However, i'm of the opinion that a smoother free spool will mean faster jig drops into the strike zone although these differences may only be noticed by seasoned jiggers. A lot of the jigging in Taiwan is geared up towards efficiency, time means money to these anglers, the more drops you get on a drift the more fish you're likely to land.
I don't think anyone or any brand was undermined in the JM video. Can't see any evidence for that, it was a JM trip afterall so all parties would necessarily be willing partners.
I'm not JM affiliated btw, just a fan of their rods (not a big fan of their jigs though!), just trying to put things in proper perspective as well.
cheers