This is such a personal preference choice.
I fished fast casting rods for years (with mono), the faster the better.
Shimano Compre, Berkley Lighting rods...
Now, since I've made the switch to braid, and bought a pair of inexpensive Berkley Shock rods on a whim, I've rediscovered the fun and ease of casting with slower casting rods.
Enough that I'm looking for a "slower" 9-10' rod for the surf.
I currently fish a 6600 on a 9' Penn Guide surf rod.
Rod selection is based mainly on the weight you'll be throwing.
It is hard to get on rod to toss a large range of weights.
So what's the weight range of your sinkers and lures that you intend to use?