My sewing machine is from Sears, but it is made by Janome. I am not even sure if Sears still sells sewing machines any more, since I bought mine at least 5 or 6 years ago. It has sewn lots of quilts and still going strong.
I also have a vintage Singer in a cabinet that was given to me by my MIL. It was made back in the late 50s/early 60s when singer actually made quality sewing machines. This spring I bought a vintage Singer that was made in 1928. Sadly I still have never rewired it so I can try it out. Hope to do that sometime this winter.
I do not have personal experience with the modern Singer sewing machines, but I have not read good reviews at all for them.
I have heard some good things about the lower priced Brother machines. If you can afford it, Janome machines usually work well and are work horses. If you can find a vintage Singer machine and make sure it works properly, they are fabulous. Sometimes you can pick one up at a thrift store or garage sale for just a few bucks. I paid $25 for mine this spring. I am thinking the number on it are 99-99, but not sure off the top of my head.
The one my MIL gave me is a Singer 328K.
Good luck.
Blessings,
Winona