I don't have any experience with the Pflunger President but haven't heard any bad things about them. Scott Green likes them a lot and thinks they're a better deal than the curados. Right at that price point too.

I would probably try one myself but darn Mr. Pham is making me think about those more high priced reels :9

Anyway, try something different and let us know! Shimano are hard to get away from but experimenting might lead to something great!

Todd