I don't really have problems with casting reels. Sure, I get an occasional overrun - but nothing unusual.
I recently cought two DC reels - an SLX and a Metanium.
The SLX has 50lb braid on it, and the Metanium has 18lb Fluoro.
Both are set on the level "2".
I'm using them for long casts.
My buddy can throw either of these and keep his thumb entirely off the spool with no over-run, and throw cast it farther than I can. I get over-run constantly - even with my thumb feathering the spool. I get more overruns with the DC than any of my non-DC reels (all Shimano). If I try a cast without my thumb on the spool, I'm spending an eternity digging out a bird's nest.
Obviously there's some difference in how we load/cast the rod. I think I'm using more wrist and snapping it more.
Any tips for improving my cast or tuning the DC reels? I'm on the verge of selling both and sticking to standard reels.
Edited to add: if I set it to level 3 or 4 the brakes kick in so quick/hard that I get no distance on the cast. I can't imagine anyone actually using the reel on those levels.