Hey, Meef, here's a link you may enjoy.
http://hyperboleandahalf.blogspot.com/2010/04/alot-is-better-than-you-at-everything.html
Anywayz, I've liked all the swords I've gotten from Himalayan Imports, though you'd probably have to wait for a deal of the day blem to squeeze by under $150.
Main thing I like is that the things are
stiff. Too many reproductions are whippy and floppy for the sake of "durability," since that lets them get away with shoddier steel and workmanship, and it allows "tests" that are pure showmanship, like bending the sword in a vise (seriously, when will a blade flex like that in combat or something? Never, that's when). In comparison, one sword I have from HI is a hair under 0.20" thick, yet is as stiff as a board. Historical examples were much closer to that kind of temper, than the floppy stuff you find today.
I've also heard really good things about Generation II (I think they changed their name?). Good quality-to-price ratio, and very rigid blades from what I've heard, though I have no personal experience with them.
Also:
(that one isn't the thin one, it's a little over 0.45" thick at the base, it's a monster)