I am just wondering if there was really much difference in similar priced rods. For example, there is a slew of rods in the 130-150.00 range. Everything from Allstar to St. Croix, etc..... Is there that much difference in them really?  OTHER Than personal preference????

Is one more sensitive? Stronger? More brittle?

Most rods overall could be very similar but if you break down their properties you could find stuff like weak guides with good customer service or any other things like that. It just depends on what you want I guess.

Of course they're will be a difference different blanks, balance , some people charge more for the name remember that so a 150 dollar rod maybe be a 120$ rod with the name. ( gloomis gl2 )

Theres different options find one that suits you.