Im also a bargain shopper, if i see a rod or reel that ive wanted for awhile on sale most likely im getting it, lol. But, im pretty much 50/50 on rods and reels, i enjoy both and think they both complete the combo, so i want to pair the best reel with the best rod i can.
I found a cumulus at a great price and jumped on it, then i thought, i really want a nice reel to go with it. So after much reserching the sustain was the reel to go with, and thats my most expensive combo i own.
But, reel shopping is much easier for me, im pretty much 99% shimano spinning reels, rods are a different story, i like getting my hands on all of them and trying them out.... Lately though, ive been paying more attention to shimano rods as well...