Ok, this is a continuation from my post yesterday, but the advantage is.... I don't have to scroll down

So, this time a few questions. As I said previously, I have been using my $26 Crystal River combo 8' 5/6 wt for about 2+ months now. Also of note, I am fishing mostly ponds, so casting distance is important.

One thing I did do was toss the combo string and bought a decent WF line. It helped some. So my questions for all you pros... (or anyone who knows more than me, which is everyone((remember, I asked what makes flies float better ) as I think about upgrading my equipment.

1. What difference could I see between this cheap combo and a brand name/well built rod. (My guess is they are lighter, more force to the cast?, may be way off)

2. What difference would I see in a reel? This one works... strips line...winds up...

3. I have an 8'... I am assuming a 9' would cast farther, but need a really open space to use it... bad for small streams?

4. Does the wt effect casting distance? Think I would like to try 4 wt, not sure.

5. Is there really a huge difference between a $10 string and a $40 string? And would it even be noticeable on a cheap rod?

So, if you have an answer, opinion, whichever.... let me know!