You're gonna drop 400 clams on a new combo and you've never fished a Senko?
IMHO Wammiee, a $200 reel and a $200 rod, from any company, will put you in a class of gear that you will find little to complain about. My recommendation is to actually handle as many rods & reels as you can. A higher price doesn't always equal the best set-up for you. Like folks have already pointed out, there are great reels, like the Pluegers and the new Lews, that are't budget busters. But get something that feels good in your hand my man! Don't hesitate to pull a few rods from the rack and mount the reels your interested in right there in the shop. You'll be surprised by how many combos, even expensive ones, will feel unbalanced, or bulky or even too small, when you actually do this.
But if you're set on popping your cork all at once; maybe you have a gift card or something, you might not want to make it an even split. Myself, I'd put more of my money towards a sensitive rod; especially if I plan on worm fishing with it. Happy shopping!