Me too I also have the Manfrotto monopod which I use more if I plan on moving around to diffrent areas during the shoot. I also have the Slik U2000 for lighter weight and, when I go into areas where I might damage the good stuff.I have a set of Manfrotto/Bogen legs with a 488RC2 head (dont know if you want a ball head or not??) But its a really sturdy set up that im very happy with. You should look at b/h, I think they have free shipping. $300 should get you something very decent..
You could consider the Induro tripods. I am really happy with mine. I have a manfrotto ball head on it.
Got the tripod and head for just under $300 cdn. all in at Vistek last fall.