I am looking for a new Baitcasting reel for a 6'8" MH rod I just bought. I am planning on using it for topwater, jigs, Carolina and Texas rigs, and about everything else other than crankbaits and finesse things. I'm thinking that I would want something in the 7.1:1 range but that is open to discussion.  I'm looking to keep in the $150-175 range. What is the best reel for my purpose?

http://www.okumafishing.com/product/view/reels/baitcast-reels-low-profile/helios-4

 

Yup.  Helios Air is a fine reel.  Got mine within your budget, but don't know if you can find one right now at that price.

Lots of good reels in this category: 7:1:1 would be good. 

Lews tournament MB

Lews BB1 Pro

Abu Garcia Revo models

Daiwa Tatula

Okuma Helios 

 

 

Daiwa Tatula Ct

Curado I 

Anything with Lews on it in that price range, lol.

LC

This the probably the most competitive price point in casting reels. You really can't go wrong among the major brands. It's a matter of preferred features and the deal. 

Lots of good reels to choose from.  I would look at the curado I or curado 70 or daiwa tatula CT.

I have 4 Helios reels they're awesome. Found one for $130 on the auction site the rest were around 160. 

Monster Tackle just put their Curado I's up for sale at $139.99

Tatula Type R

Curado 200HG

Lews Tournament MB

I love these three reels, and they're great bang for the buck. 
As far as where to get them, ebay is a great choice, and I always send an email to these folks before I buy tackle anywhere else:

 

http://shop.anglersheadquarters.com/

 

They are the friendliest people on earth and have given me countless great deals on tackle. I'm not sponsored or affiliated in any way at all! I just have been really impressed with their prices and service.

I'd get a Shimano e series Curado or Citica

Ok so I'm between the lews tournament mb and the revo stx. The mb is $108 and the stx is $140. For those prices, which do you all think is the better reel?

The Lews!

Buy shimano brother !

There are Lew's BB1 Pro on E bay for 150.00.