Lies I tell you....All lies!!
I fished a Lews in 7 gear the other day. It was a nice little reel. I don't think I will ever buy one as I am pretty content with my Abu's and my Shimano's
Yes I said Shimano's (Plural). I bought a Curado G the other day and damned if I didn't go get another one. I love the price point they have. Its between the 130 and 200 dollar mark. I still love my Revo's more. I am tempted to go buy a new Winch today too.
As for the E series, I have been told they are better than the G's but no longer made. If you can find a dealer with some new old stock, ****** it up.
I can't tell a major difference in the Chronarch over the Curado in the short time I've played with it but am told its better. For 40 bucks, I decided to stick with the Curado. I would imagine someday I would grab one.
As for your rods you have listed, I say the Crucial. I am head over heals for mine. Kinda pricey at 150-160 bucks, but the warranty is bar none