As you can see from the posts above, Brooks is a 'you love it or hate it' saddle. Here are the stories about Brooks from my house:

I have a B-17 on my commuter/long-haul bike, just got it this summer. At first I was not impressed, but by the time I put it away for the winter, I could see my seat-bones making an impact (literally) and then I was impressed. It likely took 500 miles for me to see the difference. I have typically used the original saddle that came with any bike I have (exception is my new Surly Pugsley, hated that right out of the gate).

Lisa bought a new Civia Twin Cities and really wanted to deck it out in classic gear (wicker baskets, brass bell, leather saddle). She picked up a Brooks women's saddle (forget the exact one); I mounted the Brooks on Friday night and Saturday she took a 40 mile ride on that saddle. She was super happy right out of the gate! And she has had serious issues with saddles in the past. She honestly wants a Brooks saddle for her other bikes (3 of them).

Brooks is a bit like any name brand, you are paying extra for the name. But they also have a very strong history.