sarcazmo wrote:Matt can you comment any more about blank differences between the Muse and Archangel?
I've got ya, no worries.
The difference in the MUSE and Archangel are in quality of graphite and components. Not to say the MUSE is poor quality, far from it in fact. We've been calling it (or maybe it's just me) the "baby Archangel" for good reason, as it excels in sensitivity and overall ergonomic/aesthetic design. It really is a sexy, turbo sensitive, fish fighting beast.
The Archangel is constructed of Mitsubishi Rayon's highest end sporting industry graphite, called MR70. You can pop around the internet and check out the specs, it's nothing short of amazing. Been the most enjoyable graphite I've designed a rod with, and if any of you knew my history that would probably mean something
But, you'll just have to take my word for that until you can palm one of these babies. Just feels different, almost exotic in the way it handles it's business. Beyond that, you get Ti/Tz, custom Fuji seats hot off their factory floor in uber paint 10,000 finish, highest grade EVA and corks we are able to track down...it's the most functional and American/JDM piece we could create.
The 'baby Archangel' or MUSE, is built from a 36 Ton base blank, Mitsubishi Rayon fiber (we find them to be more sensitive than Toray when building our latest designs), Kigan SiC and a similar sleek and ergonomic handle design (more full grip), with what we call in the industry a 75 degree EVA (hardness and quality measure) and a 3A cork (think out of 4A then Floor grade).
Both are constructed using what we call Zonal Design Theory. Basically, breaking the blank down into thirds and focusing on each section as it's own, to create a better whole. Both use a hex-axial pattern in the back 1/3 for power, linear pattern layout for a truer taper in the mid section, and the higher modulus graphite of the blend towards the tip (think more 36T or MR70) for increased sensitivity. The overall result is a better tool on the water. More balanced than anything I've ever seen or created, and far more sensitive. Takes the idea of a the same old mandrel pattern, press it down hard one time, and throws it out the window...as each section gets the attention it deserves.
To sum up this novel: They are built with similar design theories, but obviously differ in the quality of components and materials. Both sticks are out of this world, and will hang in their price points without any issue.
On a side-note, someone tell the guy in the thread that calls us "pups on the lawn," not to forget who signed him up with the brand next to his name.
By the way, you guys on this board came up so many times at ICAST it was border line unreal. We may have to fly a few of you down next year, so that we can stop answering all the questions about what you want!
Thanks,
Jim
And one more thing, because it's Friday and we are playing for Clearwater Softball Friday Night D League World Domination this evening, and that puts me in a good mood...I'll push the guys to launch the MUSE in March (it will be plenty ready), and Cabela's will be carrying that. Along with the baits...I mean...
