I am considering buying one for use on a crankbait rod.  But I have heard mixed reviews about the braking system in these reels. I have heard that that are the best valued reel out there (I want to hear why) and I have heard they are only good for pitching and flipping and not ideal for flinging crankbaits (I want to hear why).

I have a good thumb but that doesn't mean I don't need the brakes. Like most I don't enjoy getting out backlashes when I could be fishing.  I don't want to spend 150 bucks to get a reel that will eventually end up on a flippin' stick.

Please let me know if this reel would be a good/bad choice to put on a crankbait rod.

The SX is a fine reel.  It is functionally the same as the Revo STX.  the differences are:

1) color

2) some trim (see crank handles)

3) the everslick coating

Otherwise, it has the same number of bearings and performs just as well as the STX - for $50 less.  

I really like my SXs better than my STX.  I like the looks better.  

As far as the brake goes - it's magnetic and externally adjustable.   In my experience, centrifugal brakes are more effective.  But that's not to say the SX's brake is ineffective.  I find you have to turn the setting up to 50% or more to really feel the benefit.    But the SX really casts.  It casts light baits very, very well.   It outcasts my Shimano Curado 200 DHSVs.  

As far as what it's best for:  it's good for any application where a high speed reel would be used.  It's a little faster than optimal for crankbaits, but I use mine for cranks it it does just fine.  

I highly recommend the Revo line.  I've enjoyed mine immensely and have had zero problems with them.

Thanks that just what I was looking for...

Here's my 2 pennies worth.

Too fast of a reel for cranks in my opinion. I'm waiting on Abu to kick out a Revo in the 5.?:1 range.....

I use my SX's on a jerkbait rod and one of my worm rods. Do I like the SX better than the STX? No, for some reason it seems that the STX doesnt need near as much adjusting when changing from larger to smaller baits.

Revo's whether the S, SX, STX or Premiere come as 6.4:1 gear ratio reels.

You can change to a SX HS, STX HS and get 7.1:1. The S doesn't have that option. I believe the Premiere can also be had in a HS version. The reel sizes are all the same, there is no 100 or 200 version like the Shimano's.

fivebass,

do you have an idea of when Garcia will come out w/ a slower reel?

The SX is a fine reel. It is functionally the same as the Revo STX. the differences are:

1) color

2) some trim (see crank handles)

3) the everslick coating

And the STX had an aluminum brake-side side plate.  It's graphite on the SX.

I saw no announcement for this spring so if they do, it probably won't happen till the fall.  

Unfortunately.

fivebass,

do you have an idea of when Garcia will come out w/ a slower reel?

I heard it from a friend who heard it from a friend that Abu may release a 5.0:1 gear set for their Revos, but a slower Revo may be in the works.

fivebass,

do you have an idea of when Garcia will come out w/ a slower reel?

No but I think if they see or hear of enough interest it would be something for them to seriously consider. We could start a petition.  ;D

It never fails, no matter what, Shimano or St.Croix always have to come into play eventually, no matter what the topic. :

Yep. Never fails.

The Revo SX with a graphite sideplate and lesser trim costs less than an STX with an aluminum sideplate and nicer trim.

A Curado 100 D with a graphite sideplate and an inconveniet brake access method costs the same $200 as a 200 D with an aluminum sideplate and an access method that make some sense.