A couple months ago I bought a Quantum Energy PT baitcaster, mainly because it was discounted, but also because it looks so dang sharp.

I really wasn't expecting much from it, and I didn't even care for it much when I first used it. It was VERY loud on casts which was kind of unsettling. The more I used it though, the more I realized it was the best dang casting reel I'd ever used. It just fits the way I throw I guess.

I bought one of the $100 Tour Editions on closeout now, and it's the same way (save for making a little less noise than the Energy did initially). I got the TE and a Daiwa 153 HSTA on the same day, and the Quantums outcast it with no problem (I like the HSTA for other aspects, as it has a super smooth retrieve).

I HATED Quantums for years after a few reels that ended badly (got 2 bad EX 501's, which was the first 2 baitcasters I ever owned). I really like these TP's though, with no problems as of yet...only thing negative I have to say is the fact that they are 100% aluminum makes them freaking cold to hold when it's chilly.

Yes. I had a Shimano Cruxis that I hated with a passion. I couldn't get it dialed in so I returned it to Academy for a Revo S.

Now I got a Citica for $39 when they were on sale, and Its great. I like it as much as my Revos.

Yeah, that's another one of mine. I had a citica back in 2007, but it was one of the early runs that had problems with the levelwind, so I took it back.

After getting one of the $40 ones from Academy I liked it much better than my Curado B and Chronarch 101A, so I went ahead and got rid of those while they are still worth something.

I then found 2 more Citica's after that one, and after selling one I now have 2 that I use.

They cast mediocre, but retrieve smoothly and are built like tanks.

I fish a lot of creeks and in close cover, so total casting distance is seldom an issue from my kayak/boat, but comes into play very much when I bank fish, as I have been lately. So that's why my PT's are getting the lion share of my fishing lately.

After typing out this message, I can't wait to actually go out in a bass boat again where I use 6 rigs so it's obvious why I have so much stuff

I just bought a Quantum Code used a a pawn shop for $30. First Quantum I've ever owned, but it appears to be pretty solid. Looking forward to trying it out. It's a speedy little number at 7:1 ratio.

I've always been a 4500C guy, but recently decided to try some low profile reels. Didn't want to spend a bundle, in case I didn't like them. Since then I've purchased several Pfluegers and a couple of Pinnacles. I've got 2 Pflueger Cetinas that I love so far. Not sure how long they'll last, but I know I'm stuck on the low profiles now, and will start to buy some better models.

I did not like the Ardent line of reels when I first saw them--I thought they sat a little too high on the reel seat, didnt like the side plate and they were basically ugly. Well the reel grew on me--after a short break in period it is one of my smoothest casting reels. The drag isn't the strongest but it is one of the smoothest and I can cast light lures without having to worry about backlashes. They've made some big improvements with the new series(I had the first series) so I have a XS1000 on order.

Jason you will definately like the XS1000 it is even smoother than the XS. I have 4 1000s and 7 600s wouldn't trade them for 100 of another brand.

Got them in Friday---HUGE improvement!! Sideplate issue is resolved. Drag is even smoother(smoothiest drag of ANY reel I own) Excellent at casting light lures and the black with gold flake paint actually looks good!

Just picked up a 6501C3 for striper/catfish/coast fishing, and the new ones are a LOT better than previous C3's.

Wow...it actually performs like a typical reel in this price range now (it's always been more durable than anything in it's price range though).

Most new slightly used reels work good out of the box...for awhile. I've learned the hard way, know what your looking for in one and expect to pay what you get for.