good is subjective and debateble ... 
brands are a matter of personal taste and preference. 
objectively, all manufactures have a set of quality control over the production of their instruments to ensure playability and reliablity over the years. It's really a matter of personal choice that will influence one's perception on the value of a brand and instrument. 
I've inclined towards Yamaha basses but basses like Warwick, MTD, Musicman, Nordstrand, Warmoth still take a part of me. So it's subjective really.