I did my first 200 metre cast on a factory built CME (with BNHGs), very very underrated rods and a great allrounder for our coastline (and brilliant for learning to cast on).
As for the guides, the only thing that really lets the CME down is the weight; sticking on some lightweight guides isn't going to make a damn bit of difference on that score and at least the BNHGs are bomb proof.
Good luck with the sale, will make a cracking rod for somebody