The wife just informed me that I have 32 rods in my 'man cave'    I wasn't really surprised, but my immediate response was I only have 14 reels, so in order to get to an equal 2:1 ratio of rods to reels, I told her I'd be purchasing a couple of reels this season.  One of these will be first and the other will likely be another Sol.  Anyway, I know the difference in weight and bearing count, but I was wondering what those of you that have these think.  I don't put a lot of stock in bearing count, and I doubt I'd notice the difference in weight. I know, also that KVD sings the EXO's praises, but I seriously doubt he keeps any reel for more than one season and longevity IS a concern.   Thanks for your input.

FWIW, I love my Smoke. I can't speak for the EXO. I have read a ton of positive reviews on the Smokes, and what I have read from different sites and forums about the EXO have been mixed.

The big difference is the cast control. Do you like an internal wheel that is hard to read, or the external ACS system. Other than that it is how they feel if you palm them. Many like the exo because it palms well. I have fished with both and prefer the smoke. I do not own either at this time though.