How about the question in reverse... what brand is better today than it used to be? I'd pick JVC. Known years ago for their crappy VCRs and stereos, today they manufacture some of the best home theater projectors ever made under 40k.
What brand was better than it is today?
What are the brands of speakers or components that were once significantly better than they are today? Polk, Boston Acoustics, Bose? Keep them coming and explain why!!!