The retrieval-speed isn't there with an AMS. And there's no drag to help fight the fish, so you have to hand-line them in. The line ends up all over the deck (or over board and into your trolling-prop if you're not careful). The main reason people have problems with the spincasts are that they either forget to hit the release button and shoot while the pins are engaged, or (like me) the hit the handle on accident and engaged the pins and shoot. The same outcome, either way. Johnny B shoots bigheads most of the time, so he really uses the spincast's drag. Most of us just shoot smallish carp (less then ten pounds), so a Retriever would be fine for most of us. The Retriever is a great reel, no question about it. Everyone just has their own preferences. Use what works best for you.