Hey Big T,
I had a new CT2106 (Bait) factory Sage, but I sold it and bought an older (brown blank) model and had a rod made up.
Personally, I have found the newer factory rod a little heavier with a little more "dampness" to it, compared to an older (brown blank) Sage. In effect, I have found that the feel of my terminal tackle is felt better on the "brown blank" compared to the "green blank".
I know that many people would disagree, but then again, others would agree. I have the following rods made up in the old "brown blank": 3113mb (Pin), 3106 (Bait), two 2106b (one Pin and one Bait). I also recently found a great deal on some brown blanks; so I bought two 2106b blanks to be made up, or sold, or traded later.
As far as the components go on the new factory rods, they are definitely "bling bling" and high quality. I have put comperable quality components on my rods, but I prefer to have the subdued line guides in black or smoke grey. The factory rods are a bit too "showy" for me, with the gold colour line guides.
Basically, what I am trying to say; is that I prefer my old "brown blank" Sages. I prefer them because of the performance, feel, components, and the workmanship of a true "custom" rod.
My advice to you is: Before you spend that kind of money on a rod, ask around (like you are), and see if you can try a couple to compare.