All my spinning reels are of the 2000 series without going into brand. They hold about 130 yards of #8 test. I have a buddy whom uses all 4000 series reels, even with #8 test. He loads them up with #12 test and puts on the last 100 yards or so with #8. He swears by this technique due to, less coiling, faster retrieve and smoothness. I don't like the extra wt. factor. I have a 4000 for #12 test on a 7' MH rod for Flounder fishing in Chincoteage VA but, I don't like it for bass fishing, it was not comfortable to me. Anything over #8 and its a bait caster for me. I do see his point in line pickup. Anyone else use these big reels and small pound test?

I have a few Shimano 4000's (I'll say it) Stradics, Symetres, Sedonas, and everytime I pick them up I wish they were 2500's.

You use Stradics? I would never use one of those.