I've been considering buying the Abu Garcia Revo STX-HS. The one with the 7.1 gear ratio. It's priced at $199.99. I havn't been bass fishing long but I've had a bass rig for a while. I've been using a round shaksphere with 1 ball bearing and a 3.8 gear ratio. I figure it's time to move up a notch. My questions are:

1.) Is the Revo STX-HS a good reel for the money?

2.) Is there a better reel I can buy instead for the same price or less?

3.) I've always used a round reel never used a low-profile reel, are the low profiles just as durable as the round?

4.) What kind of rod should I look for, for this reel?

Thank You,

-Taylor

I own one and I absolutely love it. But I wouldn't suggest one for someone who isn't totally proficient with a low profile baitcaster. It can be very frustrating because it is so smooth and free on the cast.

1.) Is the Revo STX-HS a good reel for the money?

Excellent.

2.) Is there a better reel I can buy instead for the same price or less?

Matter of opinions. I don't think you can find a better High Speed.

3.) I've always used a round reel never used a low-profile reel, are the low profiles just as durable as the round?

It is always time to move on ( or move up  ;D )

4.) What kind of rod should I look for, for this reel?

Budget dependent.

I hope it helps.

imo, the hs reel is a specialty type reel ,for me it wouldnt be a good choice for a all around reel.a 6.3:1 would be a better choice for a all around reel.the stx is an extremely smooth reel due to the upgraded bearings,but somewhat harder to get use to because it is so free running.i prefer the low profile over the round reels,but its mostly a matter of preference.the stx is a upper end reel and i would only put a upper end rod w/ it.balance is the whole key to a set up,not only in weight but feel and performance.a well balanced combo makes the experience much more enjoyable .good luck and happy fishin'

Taylor,

You should look at the IPT retrieve rate on yout current reel... the Revo "regular speed" (27.5" per turn) will seem like a burner in comparison to your 3.8:1.  Actually that's pretty fast for a "regular" speed reel.

Thanks guys. You've all been extremely helpful, but I have one more question.

The Revo STX has three different models:

-STX

-STX-L

-STX-HS

I know the last is high speed but what are the other two? What does the L mean?

-Taylor

If you are focused on the Revo, you have received some good advice. If you still want to compare another brand/ model take a look at the Shimano Curado for about the same price:

http://www.basspro.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Product_10151_-1_10001_73517_100001001_100000000_100001000_100-1-1

STX and STX-L are the same reel, except the STX-L has the handle on the opposite side for those who prefer cranking with the left hand.

I really liked the Curado but I've decided to find a little bit of a cheaper reel. Right now I'm looking at the Revo SC it's 130.

I have 200$ I'm willing to spend I'd like to find a reel at 130$ or less. I've decided to get a little bit cheaper reel and have enough to get the Ambassador/Rod combo at walmart for 70$. I've owned one of them in the past and they're really good reels + it's a round reel and I'm use to it.

Do you guys have any suggestions on a reel I can buy that's 130$ or under.

-Taylor

Revo S model....$99

If u go to delostackle and type in revos  for your code it will cost 89  u can do it with all of um revosx revostx