there isn't one particular brand name that is righteously better than the other. it's all a matter of preferences.
the GAX-70 is a discontinued model, the ones you see in the stores are left-overs. having owned the GAX-70, i must say that it's a very good starter, a simple guitar which sounds decent for the money. the GAX-70 is one of 2 Gio series Ibanez i am fond of (the other being the GSZ-120).
I like Fernandez Monterey Elites. JB in bridge (though i'd probably change it to a PAF Pro) and Fernandes Sustainer in neck. awesome for metal. i'd get one.
if you're looking for an entry level one, a Fernandes Monterey X would work.