Real World Tests: When conducting reviews, I usually like to match similarly priced rods and reels together as combos. However, coming off an Editor's Choice Award win (albeit, five years ago), and with its new look and feel, I felt I could bypass that unnecessary restriction for the new X and match it up based on fun factor. Honestly, when I finally noticed those orange highlights on the reel, I knew there was only one stick in my arsenal that would be a suitable match. I selected my self wrapped, Phenix Rods K2 TX-736H rod built with anodized aluminum winding checks in an orange hue similar to that of the X.

Spool capacity is consistent across most of the Revo5 reels

I built on this blank as part of my search for a stick to handle light punching duties dropping TX rigged plastics with about a one ounce weight into clumps of weed. The TX-736H has a lure rating of one half to two ounces (1/2-2oz) and is built with a fast taper. What I discovered is, while the built rod can handle the originally intended assignment, it is also a much more versatile blank than I had originally assumed. Given that versatility, and the built rod's color scheme, it made for a nice partner with the Revo5 X.

That asymmetrical top plate is odd looking, but exceedingly comfortable

For line, I searched high and low for an orange braid to match the X's orange highlights but aside for some finesse braid products, couldn't find one suitable for my needs. I recall Suffix used to offer their 832 in orange, but I guess it was discontinued. Failing in that quest, and remembering I was able to use leaders as small as 10lb Seaguar AbrazX(0.268mm) with my hollow braid strategy, I went back to something more functional and ordered some PowerPro Hollow Ace in 40lb. I chose PowerPro's Hollow Ace because their 40lb is the smallest diameter hollow braid available (Seaguar's Threadlock 50lb is slightly thicker) and I was a little concerned with capacity on my Revo5 X. After loading the Hollow Ace onto my X, I then installed a leader of Seaguar's Gold Label FC, swapping it out each trip to change the strength of that leader based on my intended application.

Unable to find a suitable braid in orange, I went back to my hollow braid strategy with PowerPro's Hollow Ace in 40lb

Casting: While the Revo5 X's appearance has been totally revamped, what makes the reel so fun to use has not. That is its simple, yet very effective braking system. If your fishing strategy involves lure setups ranging from three eighths of an ounce (3/8oz) and up, linear, magnetic braking systems like Abu Garcia's MagTrax are about as easy to use and reliable as they come.

The Revo5 X features Abu Garcia's MagTrax braking system

Inside the non-handle sideplate is an array of five magnets nestled within a circular plate featuring ten placeholders for the magnets. Out of the box, the magnets are all arranged on one side of this plate, but if you choose, I assume they can be moved around to other positions within the plate. You can probably even add to the array if you're able to locate more magnets. I've not experimented with this strategy because leaving the magnets stock has always worked for my needs.

Adjustments to the brakes are made via this dial

Adjustments to brakes are achieved via the convenient dial on the outside of that sideplate that moves the magnet array in and out (closer or further away) in relation to the spool. The spool's corresponding side has a flat surface for the magnets to influence. The closer the magnets are, the more influence on the spool and vice versa. Again, it's a very common design found in a lot of reels at this price point, and very effective.

The line guide for all Revo5 casting reels is further away from the spool than previous models - a tweak that helps increase casting distance

Next Section: A closer look inside the Revo X