I suggest an Omega or Semogue boar. I use both brands and really like them. There both really durable brushes and I have no problem making lather with them.
I think you made a good choice. Those are the two most highly praised boar companies. Some where down the line I would recommend picking up a whippeddog silver tip badger to see the difference. I thought I was a boar guy until I got my hands on one of those bad boys.
Vintage Blades has their branded brushes that aren't too far from your price range. The two band finest they offer are superb brushes for the price.
Looks amazingly similar to Col. Conk 904! I believe both are made by for Progress Vulfix. If you want to dive into badger for cheap the Col. Conk 903 and 904 can't be beat. $20 on target.com right now. You can also hit up the col conk website: http://www.colconkproducts.com/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=1&zenid=60tmu74tnrq4j9uvltdii04ig6
You want cheap badger? Check this premium silvertip with stainless handle for $39.99 I've had my eye on. Wow. 26mm knot too.
