Haven't done the comparison yet but it gives me something to check next time I go to the store. I have cast and like the STS, it throws a nice loop without even thinking about it. You might try dropping Bob Desplaines a line, I think his email link is on www.bluenorthern.com. I can also give the rep a call and get his take on it. Maybe we can even get the two side by side at the casting clave.