What this review covers
This hands-on review covers the discontinued first-generation Lamson Remix. Remix S and Remix S HD are later designs, and Lamson states that current-generation spools are incompatible with the earlier Liquid/Remix generation.
First-generation Remix design
The original Remix combined a machined aluminum frame with a pressure-cast spool, large-arbor proportions and a conical drag. That hybrid construction was the defining idea: the frame supplied a tidy, rigid foundation while the cast spool kept the design straightforward.
In our article-era evaluation, the fit and finish were neat and the reel felt mechanically sound. We considered the arbor closer to medium than the description suggested, but it still provided useful line pickup. The spool's painted finish was more likely to show wear than an anodized surface, so cosmetic marks are common on used examples.
Drag and ergonomics
The drag felt smooth through normal adjustments, but the reviewed reel did not have the power we would choose for larger fish. Startup inertia was also noticeable. Those limits make the first-generation Remix better suited to moderate freshwater work than situations where heavy drag pressure is central.
The drag knob was large enough to grip with wet hands. The flat handle was less comfortable than a shaped handle, but it remained usable. These are observations from the reviewed first-generation reel, not from Remix S or Remix S HD.
What to check before buying used
- Inspect the painted spool for impact damage, not just surface wear
- Check that the spool turns without rubbing against the frame
- Test drag startup and adjustment for abrupt changes
- Confirm that the spool release is secure
- Buy only parts identified for the first-generation Remix
Pros and cons
Pros
- Rigid machined frame with a light cast spool
- Neat fit and finish on the reviewed reel
- Easy-to-grip drag knob
- Useful line pickup for moderate freshwater setups
Cons
- Noticeable startup inertia in our test
- Flat handle is less comfortable than a shaped grip
- Painted spool can show wear
- Current Remix S spools are not compatible
Verdict for a discontinued reel
The first-generation Remix can be a useful used freshwater reel when the frame is straight, the spool runs cleanly and the drag behaves consistently. Its hybrid build and accessible control layout are still appealing. The drag limitations and incompatible current spools reduce its value as a long-term platform, however. Buy it for the exact reel and parts in front of you, not because a later Remix S carries a similar name.
I have to disagree with your review. I use Lamson Liquid reels and one 7+ Remix. They share the same conical drag. I don’t know how you arrived at a 1.4lb max drag, which is comically low, but all my Lamson’s drags generate far more than that, plenty of power to slow down a big snook, redfish, grouper, or jack crevalle. I also have Redington Behemoth & Sage Spectrum reels, and the Lamson’s drags generate every bit the same power. The Lamson reels have very smooth drags with low or no startup inertia in my experience. Your review of these excellent reels makes me question all your other reviews. If they are as far off base as this one……