Over the last 30 years or so of backpacking, etc., I've had "big box" tents/packs/sleeping bags/etc and I've bought "cottage industry" and custom/high-end gear as well. I'm more pleased and satisfied with my non-"big-box" gear generally speaking.
My tents of preference are a highly customized Integral Designs "MK1 XL" (when they were made in Calgary) and a Henry Shires Tarptent "Cloudburst II". My sleeping bag preference is singularly Western Mountaineering for my or my family's use (granted, Western Mountaineering is BIG business, it's still locally made and of the absolute highest quality).
I'd love to spring for a Dan McHale backpack, but my Gregory Denali Pro still has a lot of life in it (even after 15 years...).