I never go without my cheapie - probably the best rod Fladden have ever produced, and still available I believe - it's a Maxximus Supersensor, 10 ft long with three tips. I only ever use the finest tip. it's very sensitive but with a lot of power too. I won it as a prize many years ago.I used it all day yesterday. There are more expensive rods available but while this one works so well for me I don't need to look for another.
I also use an old Silstar glass 1.75 tc carp rod in the harbour, being glass it has a through action.