Chess, the 2016 Consumer Reports on central units lists American Standard, Lennox, Trane and Bryant as the top four. As I'm sure you've noted, CR doesn't lab-test central units, as they do many items, including room units. These are in fact "consumer reports" of reliability and general satisfaction by users.

From what you say, Trane or Bryant might be a good choice, again with a competent installer.

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Enjoy the music, not the equipment.