Not to throw a clinker in here, but last year I bought a Lew's SG 300 and so far, I'm REALLY impressed. A year is hardly a long-term service test, but it is extremely smooth running (10 bearings), has a very nice drag, and just feels solid. It was well under $100, too. I spooled it with Power Pro #10 and a fluoro leader.
Lew's may have a convert here.
