Retrieving:   Something I really like about the Revo S is the solid feel it has.  In the past, I have used some cheap to mid priced reels that just didn't cut in in terms of having that nice rigid feel.  The Revo's frame is comprised of an X2-Craftic alloy frame, offering light weight, rigidity, and improved corrosion resistance.  The white graphite side plates feel quite good, with no noticeable flex or wobble, even under high-torque applications.

Gearing on the reel is rated at 6.4:1.  In this age of super fast gear ratios, I still prefer the versatility of a more moderate ratio.  The Revo S gearing is great for a variety of baits from worms to crankbaits.

Speaking of the gearing, the new D2 gear design improves efficiency and durability.  This is not a super powerhouse reel, but I never felt like it lacked for power during testing.  It delivers this power with impressive smoothness, and coupled with 7 stainless ball bearings plus 1 roller bearing, does so with a very connected feel.

Drag:  The Revo S boasts an impressively strong drag system.  The carbon matrix drag offers an advertised 20lbs of maximum stopping muscle, quite eye opening for such a compact package.  A scale was unavailable to solidify this claim, but at the max drag setting there are gobs of stopping power, so I have no doubt the drag is at least close to the claim.  Drag performance is not only super strong, but also smooth through all settings.  Line pulls out with no hesitation, and startup inertia is not an issue.  Adjustments are made easy and precise via a clicking drag star.

Ergonomics:  As a whole, the Revo S is quite a small package.  It sits extremely low to the reel seat, making it very easy to palm comfortably.  The only real downside to the small body and lowrider stance, is that the gear box at the base of the handle protrudes quite a bit.  Zander first brought this up with his review of the new generation Revo Premier.  While the reel is indeed easy to palm, when engulfing the whole reel in my hand the gear box touches my fingertips.  This isn't a huge issue as far as comfort goes, but can be a minor annoyance.

The time I notice it most is when using a bait that requires twitching, such as a topwater or jerkbait.  During these times I firmly palm the entire reel, and I find myself splaying my fingers out around the gearbox for maximum comfort.  Another small ergonomic gripe is with the square knobs.  I remember having the same style knobs on my Abu Garcia Pro Max baitcasting reel back in the early 1990's.  While I don't hate them, I don't love them either.  A more contoured, rounded knob style with a bit more of a texture pattern would be welcome.

The handle and drag star are both bent or “swept” inward.  This makes the package the slightest bit more compact, and probably increases cranking power as well.  Hey, it looks cool too!

Durability:  Over the course of a few months of fishing, the Revo S still feels smooth and solid.  Casting, retrieving, and just the overall feel remains like new.  Opening up the reel to inspect the gearing revealed no wear or abnormalities.  When the time comes for a little lube on the main gear, the reel features a maintenance port on the bottom of the gear box.  This allows for easy, quick lubrication.

Application, Warranty, Price: The Revo S will be a fairly versatile reel for most anglers.  With it's modest gear ratio, it will be a wise choice for many Bass fishing techniques.  The increased corrosion resistance of certain parts also makes it a decent choice for inshore saltwater anglers.  Saltwater anglers will also appreciate the powerful drag system for stopping a big bull Redfish.

As mentioned earlier, if you want a reel for casting lightweight lures, this probably isn't the best reel for you.  While it will work okay, I desired a bit more performance casting these baits.

At an MSRP of $129.95, the Revo S is an attractive value for the performance you get.  At that price it gets right in the face of the Shimano Citica G, priced at $129.99.   After purchasing your Revo, you can have peace of mind that Abu Garcia has it covered for a year against faults in materials or workmanship.