If you are buying the reel for plugging, I would suggest the Abu 6500. The 525 mag is so fast out of the box it will frustrate the hell out of you for plugging.
It takes a lot of time and effort to controll that reel if you are not a conventional guy. It is not level wind and you must lay the line down evenly and not have any loose spots. If you do not do so it will blow up on you. I use my 525 for tin and jigging the ditch.
The Abu line is excellent. I have a bunch of Abus and find that the 6500 series is a good balance with a 9 foot stick. Take your choice on which one to buy. The series is excellent and has a lot of choices. The record (I think) has a larger capacity than the rest of the series. If I can find one, I will buy the mag elite. An excellent choice. Another is the Trophy series. The reels coming through are all asian and it would be wise to talk to Mike at M&D Bait . He not only will guide you , but will make any modifications necessary for you.
Good luck!!
