which board?

Question
Hi Patrick,
I'm going to buy a board this week, and am wondering if you could give me some advice. I am 125lbs, 5'7".  My skill level is such that I can go out in lighter to sometimes moderate winds, sail around for a good hour without falling once. However, I have not learned to water start or jibe yet, and I have never used a harness (although I do have one).  I have a 5.5 sail already.  I found a 2007 Mistral Synchro 115L at a good price, but have been told that it will be tippy, is not enough volume for me at my skill level.  I've been told to stay around 130L-140L.  Originally, I was considering the Mistral synchro, screamer,  explosion, and the Starboard Carve. I think I have ruled out the synchro because I need more volume and it's for intermediete to advanced sailors.  I am mostly thinking about the explosion and the screamer now, and was thinking that the screamer 133L or the explosion 130L was closest to what I might need.  
I will be sailing around the Savannah, GA area (will mostly go to St Simons island area).  I am wondering if you could help me decide on if this is the right volume for me at my skill level, and which board might be the best one for me to grow with.
Thanks so much!!
Reni


Answer
First of all, what size boards have you been sailing and have you felt somewhat comfortable on in the past?  Secondly, what wind speeds are common in the area you sail in?

A 115 L board is not really too small for someone around 125 lbs.  My medium to light wind board is 125 L and I weigh around 145 lbs. and it is very floaty, I can uphaul it in all but the most challenging conditions. I can stand on it without sinking it,  and it is really not that tippy.  So the 115 L Synchro might be a good choice for you. When boards get above 125 L they start to feel like you are sailing on piece of plywood.  The are very stable but not very exciting to sail on in 18 knots.