may want to check out some of the platers hxt cues. they are cheap (100-150 range) but they play extremely well.
if you do not want to go that route, what kind of cue are you looking for? specific pin, certain wood, certain type joint, what have you shot with that you liked?? would give everyone a great start on how to help you.
i personally like the feel of the older mcdermotts. i recently swapped to a jacoby and its awesome though. also shot with a pechauer that i loved and also a few new players that feel good. i shot with a red dot meucci that i hated though. it had too much flex for me.
also, i dont like stainless joints. they hit too stiff for me.
it all depends on what you want. cues are all personal preference.
finding a used custom cue in good condition for that price would be a good route as well