Have to agree with Sam on this one as I too got a 710/10.
I had been looking for an 'all-day' rod and had initially single out the CV79/40 BUT since it's the weapon of the GT-gods getting one without drooling for one year waiting in line is almost impossible at that time.
So when specs for the GT710/10 came out it was seriously second best on paper already but the moment I held it, I knew it was coming home with me.
I will limit my comparisons also with the Ultimo82MH and the EP82/35 as those were the only ones around me to compare with.
The GT710/10 is very balanced and especially when paired with the SW10000. That said I was a little sceptical as I had wanted to a PE8 rod as my go-to but the moment it was loaded up and shooting stickbaits, everything just came together. In fact, it feels more like a PE8 with good reserves down low. So I'd imagine that the GT710/8 would feel more like a PE6 instead.
However, the clincher was how fast I could 'feel' the control of the rod when working the stickbaits. Cherry Pai 200, RealBait, Dartbait and SS Lures came alive with the soft tip. Eventhough rated to 190gm max lure weight, optimally it punches out best at 100-150gm. It is not too much of a slouch with poppers either and would be best at 100-130gm, tested with a E-Cup but the magic was with the El Toro 125gm. Since I pretty much know that I will be limiting my casting weights to max 150gm, this rod became a very good choice in addition to its length.
Ultimo82MH has a lot more grunt than the GT710/10 and personally I think it is more of a chugger although it could really push and work a Gamma 200, but then again at that weight i suppose even a Komodo can work it. It doesn't feel as sensitive and definitely stiffer even at 8'2"
EP82/38 feels a little simillar in terms of sensitivity and it casts buttery smooth; perhaps it's the length but it feels slightly more forgiving than the 710/10. I'm seriously considering this as my distance rod.
I'm still very curious about the CV79/40F though ..... if only the pocket can go deep enough
Hope this helps your decision a little better.....