I went ahead and purchased this combination as a result of the positive feedback given.  Thanks to all that took the time to respond.  I was able to fish with this combo for an hour late this afternoon and I’m very happy with my purchase.  To think I only paid $39.00 for a rod I’m this impressed with is just silly.  I’m equally happy with the reel.  It is not going to replace my Revo SX but there certainly is not $95.00 difference in the two reels…IMHO.  This is clearly the best $115.00 I’ve spent to date on fishing equipment.