Liteon is considered good by quite a few here at AT. It's been a reliable brand so far for me, and is not expensive.
Aopen is another one that I have used extensively and has worked well for me.
Plextor is the best brand in my opinion when it comes to burners.
Sony is, I believe, rebadged liteons.
If you have a question about a brand you were looking at, let us know.