What I do is scan places like Sportsman's Guide, Sierra Trading Post, REI Outlet, and Campmor for stuff in my price range then check the associated reviews at www.thebackpacker.com, www.backpacking.net and www.trailspace.com.

Another source for helping make decisions is the Gear and Other Hardware forum over on Outdoors-Magazine.com. Do a search for tents, sleeping bags, etc and find out what people think of the gear they use.

As for person favorites of mine, I like Mountainsmith, Guide Gear, and Alps Mountaineering stuff.

It's easy to get overwhelmed by all the choices out there. The two basic rules of thumb are:
1. You get what you pay for.
2. The *next* tent/bag/stove will be perfect.

-Blast