Saw Quantum Response at Gander. They are 59.99 which is the cheapest Ive ever seen a microguide rod for. Im not a rod expert but they felt pretty good. Dicks Sporting Goods also has new TEC SPEC rods that are 79.99 called elite and you can use the 10 dollar off coupon if needed. They are blue in color and the normal one were black so you will notice them right away of they are in your store. They come in 3 different models I believe. Im sure there are other inexpensive rods that are out there.

Here's the Quantum specs

http://www.quantumfishing.com/products/2352/Response.aspx

feature

- QX48 IM8 graphite construction

- MicroTrac line guide system

- Pro-style split-grip EVA handles

- PacBay reel seats

- Aluminum oxide guides

Model Type Length Action Taper Line Weight *Handle Seat Pieces MSRP REMC661M Casting 6'6" Medium Fast 6-14 lb. Split EVA PacBay 1 REMC661MH Casting 6'6" Med. / Heavy Moderate 6-14 lb. Split EVA Pac Bay 1 REMC701M Casting 7'0" Medium Fast 6-14 lb. Split EVA PacBay 1 REMC701MH Casting 7'0" Med. / Heavy Fast 10-20 lb. Split EVA PacBay 1 REMC702M Casting 7'0" Medium X-Fast 6-14 lb. Split EVA PacBay 2

Those look pretty nice. Will have to give those a look see. Thanks for the link.

They are 49.99 now at Gander....they feel pretty darn light, as light or lighter than a carrot stix pg in the same rating...11 micro guides on them. I may get one in 6 6 medium and demote my berkley to garage status

Looks like a pretty good deal on that rod. Its worth a try at 50 bucks for sure. They veritas micro rods are priced around the 100 dollar mark which is also a good bang for your buck microguide rod.

Cabelas also has the Prodigy Micro Guide rods for $69.99

I'll have to stop buy dicks to check those rods out. Was going to buy a veritas micro guide since I have 2 regular ones but the tec specs are in blue?That's my favorite color...

Just picked one up tonight. 7' MH/F. I'll post up after I've wrung it out this weekend.

I used the Quantum Response quite a bit this weekend and came away very impressed. I paired it up with a Quantum reel and flourocarbon line. Sensitivity wise, I like it better than my Lamiglass Excell (It's been moved to spinnerbait duty). The MH has lots of backbone. For the price I would buy more, no question.

Nice to hear they work well