This is a question that has been asked many times by just about all O Gaogers/O Scalers. There is no substitute for quality figures and cost. In recent years, with Shapeways, and other creative techniques, figures have come a long way. But the saying applies, you get what you pay for. Here is a selection from a company in England, called Model U. Real people are scanned and models are made in the scale of your choice. I like 143.5. I paint my own, a little easier then 1/48 but i have plenty of those as well.. Another company, "Printle" a shapeways affiliate, also have real scanned figures. Not cheap, but excellent. Of course I love Artista. I have a variety of all the brands. But lately have leaned to the ones from Europe. Only reason is, I like detailing my own, and enjoy that part of the hobby....
Some examples: Model U 1/43 scale.
Printle 1/48 scale
This shot shows a mix of Artista, the above two, choochilgins,and S&D another company in England.
The men are 1/43.5. The women are all 1/48 scale.
This shot is a good example of the mentioned manufacturers in one setting.
