I believe they are the same blank material.

I take it that means we may be seeing some "new" Bass rods coming?? :) I saw a few split grips from Lamiglas in a dark green blank, made just for a Sporting Good store, felt just like the Excel series as for weight and action. Still hoping to see the Certified Pro series updated with Split Grip and even upgraded guides (without having to buy the blanks and go to rodsmith....)

We already use Fuji Alconite guides on the certified pros and as far as split grips go we are still considerig it. And yes there will be some new bass rods in the future, you'll just have to wait and see what we come up with. Hope this helps.