Thanks for all the responses guys. Right now I have the 6500 cs mag elite with all the bells and whistles except the ceramic bearings but I do have abec-7 bearings though. Also have the 5500 cs mag elite and the 7000cl. The reason I asked the question was that I've pretty much mastered the levelwind reel and thought the natural progression would be to the non-levelwind. After reading everyones comments, I'll probably stick with the levelwinds for now but maybe in the future try out the non-levelwinds.
Hey TWS, at least I've caught more stripers in one hour than you have all year

. We still on for Sat. night - Sun. morning?
Hey John, any reports on the ceramic bearings?