What are some good watercolor paint brush brands and series?

[Peak Forum Bot]

I've been to several different websites that give some awesome advice on what the best types of paint brushes to start off with are, but not a whole lot on brand or what bands are a good buy for a beginner. I've been considering Winsor & Newton's Sceptre Gold II brushes after a rather disappointingly short run with a Hobby Lobby's Masters Touch brand. (On the bright side I have a very nice mop brush now.)
The brushes by W&N offer a blend of sable hair with synthetics which in theory seems like a good idea, especially since I don't want to put out too much money on more expensive brushes until I have a firm grasp of what I'm doing, but I'm leery of another disappointment like the Master's Touch brush.
What do all of you think?

 

[Wahlex]

For watercolors brush I like using Winsor & Newton Series 7 brushes from (Link Removed). Bought a set on for $99 and these Winsor & Newton brushes are of the highest quality manufacture and have, in the short time that I have had to use them, performed very well with gouache and watercolor mediums. They are expensive; but, having won some prize money, I consider my purchase worthwhile.

 

[OkieDokie77]

Winsor Newton is a good brand and I believe that they have different quality levels for whether you're a beginner or professional.

I like Kolinsky brand brushes because they're really soft and still hold their shape after rinsing and drying. The brush can really make or break your work, especially if you need to do some detail work. If you have to do detail work, spend the money on a good brush so you don't have it flay out but can hold its point as you work.