Try not to get into brand as much as feel. There have been so many posts on this topic and everyone has a different opinion. More money doesn't always mean better. Whatever feels best in your hands and has a nice balance is the BEST.
My multi purpose rod is green and was $40, the reel is silver and was $40, 1 spool is spooled with 10 lb green braid $15, the other spool also has green braid but 20 lb test $15. And I like it even if Chubb thinks I'm nutz!!! Last time I went out and fished with 4 other hardcore forum members we all had different set ups and I can attest, we all nearly did equally poorly as the other.
