As many will probably suggest as well, I recommend dorbeR (one of the sponsors here). I have 12 rods and two of them are dorbeR. I belong to a casting club and get to try and 'trade to play' many rods. dorberRs are easy on the budget because they do not advertise. They are well made a couple of friends (here in Toronto) have also got them after seeing mine. They are not as fast as a new StCroix Legend Ultra but are faster than a Sage DS (IMHO). I would say they are 2/3 fast and really enjoyable for fishing. Unfortunately you will not be able to try one before buying. Good luck in your search.