changing brands who do you recommend?

There are a number of brands on the market that could be considered good, or better than audiobahn. But the reality of it, is you will more than likely get what you pay for. I wouldn't take this as if it were set in stone, but more often than not, this can be applied.

So instead of listing a dozen or so names that are categorized in the good/better line, why don't you take it upon your self to do some research and bring back what you find here, to the forum. You are certainly on the right track with a brand like Alpine. Their top end stuff is very nice, while their entry level stuff is respectable as well. I will advise that things that claim or sound too good to be true are just that, like audiobahn, all looks (if you are in to chrome flame crap) and no performance.

It all depends on what you want to do with the overall system. if your running for sq or spl. I personally have infinity component sets, the reference series, which are the same round a bout price as the alpines and they are amazingly clear on infinitys 7541a 4 ch that puts out110w rms x 4 @ 4ohms! also if your looking to get some good bass going on a budget i would check out the mtx t7512-04 12 inch 7500 series ran by either a mtx 5601 or their 7801. personally for a good setup on a budget i would go with 2) 7512-04 wired in parrallel and a 5601. this amp/sub package you can pick up online for around 500 bucks. i used to install at a pretty well know shop in ohio and we would sell mtx like crazy over audiobahn, rockford, even jl! its the best in quality vs $$$ ratio type deal. there very good and clean speakers. great on all types of music.