Thanks for the reply, I could of sworn I saw the Tranx for sale in the mid 2 hundred dollar range. But after shopping around your right, $500. That is one expensive reel! I'm headin up to the northwoods next week and am planning on stopping at Rollie and Helen's. Will have both reels in front of me and I think I will make the final descision then. Thanks again and good Luck to ya.