First off I am solely speaking of the Gen 3 Revo line... 

 

I had recently purchased an Abu Garcia Revo STX, to use for general cranking purposes (crankbaits,spinnerbaits,swim jigs,etc.) and I wasn't a fan. It feels awesome, light, smooth, great reel, just the ratio was way too high for me, and the closest Dick's only had the 7.0:1. I wanted the Winch originally, so I returned the STX. Now here's my question:

 

What is the main difference between the STX and the Winch? Should I get the Winch or look for a lower gear ratio STX? I feel like i burn my baits through the strike zone so a 5.4:1 or anywhere near would be ideal.

 

Thanks in advance for your help!

The winch was designed for cranking. It's in a 5 gear slower ratio for what you need. The STX is mainly for your jigs, trig etc. it comes in 3 gears, but nothing slow enough for cranking.

The winch also has a larger spool for more line and a larger handle to help with deep diving cranks

The winch was designed for cranking. It's in a 5 gear slower ratio for what you need. The STX is mainly for your jigs, trig etc. it comes in 3 gears, but nothing slow enough for cranking.

The winch also has a larger spool for more line and a larger handle to help with deep diving cranks

Yep

Low ratio/IPT reels like the Winch are ideal for deep cranks or maybe heavy spinners with Colorado blades due to the water resistance on retrieve. Shallow cranks, spinniers, swimjigs etc can often be fished on 6.4:1 reels and slightly faster action rods too for that matter.