These two links might help you out. They do extensive review on 5 weights and 8 weight rod companys, basically the same thing going on in this thread----with authority.
http://www.yellowstoneangler.com/8.weight....ni.shootout.asp
http://www.yellowstoneangler.com/FlyRodCom...nrodtesting.asp
There are several good companies out there. TFO has one of the best warranties in the biz so does Loomis...
but needless to say, some of my favorite sticks have been Sage... Buying a rod is a lifetime investment. Most of us have many years of fishing left in us to justify paying premium for a rod. I would agree to trying some demo's... then you gain greater perspective and can laugh when you hear everyone's pitch about there favorite rod.