The new ones (69xx) have been out about six months now. As far as I can see, the new ones have a braid ready spool (so is the old one, once you put mono backing on it) and a new soft touch handle (not that the rosewood handle bothers me in the least). To its credit, the old one still has the spare spool.

The "old" 67xx reels are being cleared out in a few places (surprisingly even at my Wal-Mart) for about the same price as the new one is available online. Has anyone tried the new ones yet to compare? Is there a compelling reason to choose the 69xx over the 67xx?

I love both, I use the new one to add a modern look to my spinning outfit, i love the pearl blue color. I had the old one with the rosewood handle for my trout outfit. Both handle very well.

They are mechanically unchanged. Cabelas has the 67xx w/spare spool for $39.99. Load up on them.

Do what DVT said, stock up. No telling when they'll discontinue it.

Even at retail the President is one of the best bang for your buck deals in a spinner. On sale, it's almost a no brainer.

Any spool is braid ready if you put tape on it, I even use tape when I'm loading up mono.

wow that's a great deal for $39.99 it worked great for dropshot fishing, flukes and senkos... also would make a great sand bass reel.... dang thought I was set on reels but gotta get one of these.. mine eventually wore out- so looking to get another one now at this price...

Even at retail the President is one of the best bang for your buck deals in a spinner. On sale, it's almost a no brainer.

Picked one up yesterday. Tried to get a second one 45 mins later, but they were out of stock. Thanks for the heads up!

Looking at the weight of the reel. That is the biggest change. I upgraded all of my old president to new ones to save weight and the amount of line they hold is also upgraded.