The reason for the 'slop' in the Spirex is due to the Quickfire feature. Reels that have the Quickfire feature are self-centering so that the Quickfire always centers back against the rod so that with a quick flip of a finger and snap of the wrist you can cast.

Shimano's are by far the best, as most people on this board will agree. If you are like me and do not like the Quickfire feature either look at Sedano at $46.99, Symetre at around $75 I believe or a Stradic at $114.99. None of these reels have the Quickfire feature and thus use a one-way roller bearing which eliminate any 'slop' in the spool.

And stay away from the Quantums!!