Carpe Diem, I think it's a case of "horses for courses". Look at the waters you are going to fish and find out what size the carp grow too, ask any carp angler, they are all so easy going and full of local knowledge they are willing to share...NOT! Once you know the average weight of the carp and the conditions of the water i.e clear, weedy, snaggy etc then a trip to the tackle shop or a surf on the net should put you on the right track for the right type of rod for your fishing. As a rough guide, you won't go far wrong with a 12ft 2 1/2lb tc rod. There are a multitute of makes and manufacturers out there so haggle and get it at a price that suits you, don't get caught up in this "brand" thing, make your own mind up.