i have just seen though that there is a 2017 version of the fox fx9 which has a new handle and upgraded gears. i do like the look and size of the ultegra 5500xtd but if the internals are not that good i think i will stay clear of it. i have seen the ultegra for sale in a tackle shop for £75 and i was wondering why they have been reduced so quickly.
to be fair after the comments im leaning more towards the fox now lol.