[Arran]

Sparton and Stromberg Carlson sets are cut above any brand Z set, above most Philco models as well (not the 116s though). Spartons and Strombergs obviously aren't as common as brand Z sets but they do turn up fairly often. Majestics were generally well made, at least the earlier ones were, the original Grigsby Grunow went under in 1934 and then the company reorganized under Majestic Radio and Television. Majestic underwent a slow decline from being a reputable set around 1934-35 to basically a bargain brand by the early 1940s. In each case we are speaking largely of pre war radios, thought post war Spartons and Strombergs are still better then average. There are lots of other makes to look at, RCA, as has been mentioned, G.E, Stewart Warner, FADA, etc. Canadian G.E is one of the brands I collect, many shared their chassis with Canadian RCA models, American G.Es, aside with ones made between 1930-35, are altogether different.
Regards
Arran