Thanks guys, I appreciate the advice. Postman, I agree the XTD will probably not be 200.00 better than the A12OS, especially at my skill level, but it wouldn't be the first time buying more "toy" than I need. Got a garage full of surf fishing gear to back that up..... I know that you guys have a wealth of knowledge and I appreciate the platform to ask newbie questions. So I'm on the right track?? Tommy