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A lot depends pn the type and weight of line you'll be using. The 6500 size will work for you if you use 20# mono or a thin 50# braid, like Whiplash or Power Pro, or 35# Spectron braid. If you're going to use 25# or heavier mono, 50# Spectron (not recommended for a reel without a level wind) or a Dacron braid, the 7500 and the 975 are more suited.
Personally, I like the Abu reels. The 975 is not as bulletproof as you would expect a Penn to be. Two recurring problems that I and others have had is the free-spool button not fully engaging, which causes it to pop up and the reel to go into gear on the cast, and premature wearing of the level wind pawl. I also think they have a lever drag version and a star drag without a level wind. The 975 has a much better drag than either of the Abus. It's also a little trickier to work on yourself.
If you go with the Abus, two things I would do is swap the double handle on the 6500C3 for a power handle, and install the Smoothie aftermarket drag washers. Both are available on-line from www.hatterasoutfitters.com and if you prefer to shop locally and support a board sponsor, I'm sure Mike T can obtain them for you. He may still have the Trophy version of the 6500 which comes with the power handle standard. On the 7500, all you have to do is swap the stock drag for the Smoothies---the stock one is better than the 6500's but still not up to par with some other reels.
One last suggestion--if you are going to spend about $220 on the 975, it's only another $30 or so to get the Shimano Calcutta 700, which is a much better reel. You can even put 40# mono on the big Calcutta. Best drag in the class, right out of the box.
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