Being a major Pantene-hater myself....I LOVE this thread!!!!
First of all, my background is with Paul Mitchell. I've worked for JPMS for several years...so yes, I'm biased. There really isn't a more complete line on the market that suits the consumer's needs and at a very reasonable price. Liter sales are going on RIGHT NOW and will continue through February. You can get most shampoo/conditioner duos 2/$26.
I also highly recommend Eufora. They utilize Certified Organic Aloe Vera Gel as the base for all shampoos, conditioners, treatments, and in many styling products. Since aloe is antibacterial, anti-viral and has antiseptic properties, it's great for skin and scalp conditions like acne, dandruff, and seborrhea.
I'd also recommend ABBA, Alterna, Rene Furterer, Alfaparf, and Thermafuse as other alternatives. These are all professional lines found only in salons with the exception of Rene Furterer which is also sold at Sephora.