I think NRX 873 is as sensitive as the 894 I used to have. That being said it’s a great rod but others have caught up. got a cpl of Xtasy’s from Gary and never looked back. I have both the 754 and 755 fantastic rods and yes they BOTH balance as well as anything out there and just as sensitive in my hands as my 873. Now I’m gonna say something very ugly ! I’ve got a 7’6” hvy action black Ice Duckett and I don’t care what anyone says it’s a true sleeper. Extremely sensitive and Very Very well balanced with or without a reel mounted. Very nice rd indeed.