I have a quantum energy pt 600 that i love and also a shimano curado 200b. Both are fantastic reels, but i do like the braking system on the curado better than quantum's. As for spinning reels, a great low-cost reel that I use is the okuma. Its kind of a new guy, and the company is a little smaller than the big boys, but for the cheaper price i have gotten GREAT use out of it with no problems whatsoever.