I have both the Stradic 4000 and the Penn 4500. The Stardic is smoooooth and with the extra spool changing lines to fit the condition is easy. I keep the 4000 set with 8lb and 10lb line and I keep the Penn set with 12lb line. Both balance about the same on the rods thus making the change easy. To keep the cost down get a good reel that has an extra spool rather than 2 cheap reels. Just my thoughts. -- We need rain.