Well after reading all your reports on the MR3 I had to join the club.
Just replaced my Shimano with the MR3, Purchased from Troutlet.com for $477 including shipping. I will probably use it on 10.5' G-loomis, My 11.5' Sage is too long for my 18' boat when fishing by myself.
I had problems with the shimano but easily fixed. While fighting a 27 lb King both handles fell off, I brought the fish in using the little nubs that the handles were screwed to while fishen by myself.