I'm currently trying to piece together a dream (budget of $3600) Rando/Light Touring/Commuting bike. Most of the brake levers I've used all have a pretty low quality feel to them. (NO STI, I'm using DT shifters)

Does anyone make a solid feeling and somewhat ergonomic brake hood/lever these days?

(Also posted in the randonneuring section because these two groups of cyclists are hte ones most likely to use them)

You could run some bullhorn handlebars. and get some time trial brake levers. i always found that they have had a good feel, ergo, and powerful.

If you're looking for something for drop bars then the model with the most comfortable hood is the Cane Creek SCR-5. There is also a Tektro model that is the same except for the hood cover material and branding. The Cane Creek comes with silver or black levers and in a standard reach (SCR-5) or a short reach (SCR-5C) version, which puts the levers slightly closer to the bars. The hoods on the Shimano version (R600 I believe) are not nearly as comfortable.

I agree on the Tektro (Cane Creek are basically the same) and the Shimano R600. The Tektro hoods are wider and are closer to STI brifter type levers and hoods. The R600 is slightly narrower and more like a traditional road lever. I have both on two bikes and I like the Shimano better. Both are very solid feel and nice action.