kistlero wrote:I am kind of partial to the Helium 2 LTX myself. I like the brand Kistler.
Hahaha! Trey moonlights as a comedian on the weekends.

But, when you post this question on the Kistler website what response do you expect? Goodness.
Sincerely, you're real choice at this level is between a Gloomis GLX and the Kistler LTX. I have both. For what I paid for the Gloomis, I refuse to say that I don't like it, but to me the Kistler LTX II is definitely my go to rod. It feels lighter and is definitely better balanced. Regardless of the action, my personal perception is the Gloomis rods tend to run too stiff from end cap to tip top. Kistler's stated action on each rod seems much more consistent, and you have all the backbone you need with tips that provide better casting and better hook sets.
Given the choices, get the LTX II. You won't believe it until you feel it and fish with it. It's unlike any rod you have ever fished with before, and you'll be "hooked."
Let us know how you like your new LTX II! I know you're going to love it.
AND, I should add, you get the split grip with LTX II along with a much better bait keeper. I get more life out of my soft plastics using the Kistler than with the GLoomis because I don't have to unhook the bait to stow it!
-Marc