Like the man says, you get what you pay for.
It also depends on where you are fishing from and for what - how far do you have to cast? Fishing for Sole and Whiting is a lot different from fishing for Conger, Cod and Bull Huss. Shakespeare is a good cheap tackle brand - had one for twenty years and it only cracked off this summer. Ask your local Sea Angling Club - members might be prepared to sell you stuff second hand AFTER you have tried it out, and they will be less likely to stiff someone who is joining the club. They are also more likely to have "kit" that fits local shore and tidal conditions etc. and you will pick up on loads of tips, maybe even fish with them... FWIW