if we look at today top pro players, there are so many brands other then yonex. so the answer out there is very clear, all brands can produce good racket just the pricing. for me, the feel of the racket is important. the higher priced rackets are likely to be more consistent with specs. coming back to the title of this thread, i feel for the money you pay, apacs is a reasonable brand that has established itself as an alternative. i am sure there are many others out there.