We're in n+1 territory now.
Read
www.carryology.com and EDCForum for more than you probably ever wanted to know. Oh, and add Wirecutter for some purely mainstream points of view.
My favorite in small to medium packs these days is HillPeopleGear. You'll never find it at REI or Dick's, but it's superb and the service is absolutely first rate. They have possibly the best shoulder harness in the industry. I have their Backcountry (my top choice) and also their Tarahumara and their butt pack (which with one of their Prairie belts is a superb daily hiking tool).
Arcteryx packs are also superb, especially in heavy-load packs where the hip belt comes into play. Mystery Ranch packs are excellent, even at the lightweight end for daily hiking or street use. If you like MR I'd also suggest Eberlestock.