Swinger,
There's always going to be a superior rod to the next one out there, its all about personal preference... Every rod company is going to have characteristics that may or may not suit your style/technique. If you like a faster taper/light tip rod go with the feathastyx(NF Composites) or The Lamiglas XMG50.... OR if you prefer the moderate action ghetto GLoomis(Shimano) "cheap components" or Rainshadow, which the distributor is local and has a wide selection of blanks to choose from. Also if you have a rod built by an experienced builder, he can slightly change the characteristics of the rod by the number of guides and placement...

IMO if you want a factory rod with great components and that is mass produced, go with St. Croix... or the Homewater which is local, and to top it! St. charged me $10 to replace my upper section of a 9'6" Avid!

OR........you can go custom! with a rod/blank of choice!
this is my newest rod to add to the arsenal!

XMG50 10' 8-15 CUSTOM

Quality reel seat (Super Sticker)

ALPS guides