Shimano Cardiff Reel

I used a Calcutta last week and was very impressed with it, so I've been doing some research and I've been reading that people like the cardiff model better - smoother, longer cast, minimal backlash - and $100 cheaper. I'm not one to drop hundreds of dollars on a single rig but I'm looking to finally get a nice one that can be diverse with salt and fresh water.

Also if y'all have any good suggestion on what kinda rod to use with it. I'm inexperienced with mixin and matchin as I usually just get the combos. Thanks y'all and Murry Chrimmus.