For what kind of oven, range, cooktop, etc.? What do you tend to cook?

I think Cuisinart does a pretty good job for a decent price point. I have their 10 qt stockpot and my mom has several of their pots and pans and has had good luck with them over the years.

If you want to splurge (make your next several birthdays about cookware?) I'd highly recommend Demeyere. They make up the bulk of my pots and pans and I LOVE them. They are a dream to cook with. You will never want another brand again. But they are $$$ and it took me several years to build up. So glad I did!

Thanks Christy!! I'll keep my eyes open and do some research.

KD, right now we are building and will have a gas range. As of now, we have a simple smooth top.

The Cookware Forum may be helpful here,

Here is a link that might be useful: Here is one thread, of many

Tramontina tri-ply from walmart receives high marks from Chowhound's cookware forum. I pieced together a collection of all clad that I really like but I did it a bit at a time. I also have copper, cast iron and carbon steel. Sometimes different pieces for different tasks is better than a whole set of one material.

I've been buying Calphalon Tri-ply Stainless from Marshall's when I can find it. I've bought the 1.5 and 2.5 qt. saucepan and 6 qt. stockpot, all for under $50 each. The 2.5 qt. saucepan is $150 at Macy's. They aren't seconds but are out of the box. They only get in a few pieces at a time though. I like the weight and that it is triple-riveted at the handle. The lids are glass. The handles are a little thinner than I'd like.

I have some Cuisinart sauce pans and they aren't as heavy as the Calphalon. I have an All-Clad and hate the handle.

We don't shop at Walmart, but I've seen some Tramontina at Marshall's, along with All-Clad and Cuisinart.

Another vote for Calphalon Tri-ply Stainless. I cook from scratch every single day and I love these pans. These and my cast iron pans and I'm good!!