I don't think the prices get lower than the AB's you mentioned. Personally I wouldn't wast my money on them. I'd rather save and at least consider something like Dyna-Lite, Photogenic, or something similar. Why pay twice for something in the long run?
The smart thing to do, if you're low budget, buy one light at a time, like a great mono-light. Learn to master it, then add to your set gradually. In lighting, it's not how many lights you use, but how you use them. One-light can do a ton. Remember, that light is the "life-blood" of your image. If you went in for a blood transfusion, would you want it done inexpensive?
That's my two centavos worth, wishing you the best, and thanks for being a part of the GG family and community, rg sends!
(Image done with one-monolight, Hensel Integra 500, Chimera Octa57 light modifier, studio, Michael Dean Photography at Coatesville, PA)
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(Image done with one light, Hensel Ringflash with OctaSunHaze attachment)
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(Image done with one light, Hensel Integra 500 with Chimera Medium Softbox)
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(Image done with one-light, pure evening sunlight)
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(Image done with one-light, Dyna-Lite Uni-400 monolight pointed into a California Sunbounce Reflector)
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(Image done with one light, Hensel Integra Pro 500, Chimera Large Softbox)
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