You can get an Asok kit for under 200, and I swear by them. Thats two of them in my avatar pic. I will say this next thing and it will sound like I am joking but I am not. Spend some more time here on TDH and 200 for a nice helmet won't seem like much money anymore.
It kinda comes down to learning what quality is worth, and learning an appreciation for the product. This is not a cheap hobby by any stretch but it is fun an fulfilling. Most any hobby that you get into will cost you some, whether it is golf, cycling, bowling or even playing video games. A lot depends on your knowledge of the hobby as to what "expensive" is. For instance I ride bikes and a 1500 dollar bike is entry level to me, but to most people I am nuts for spending that much. But when I ride I often have one on the cheaper bikes in the group.
The sticker shock can certainly hit in this hobby but I have found that buying a $165 Cold Cast Jango Fett from Asok is actually a bargain. I know that spending $50 on a Rubies is actually quite expensive.
If you watch closely you can catch some deals on older, less accurate helmets that can still look nice, but you will have to stay right on top of things. Think it over and if you decide to get into this hobby ( which is great fun) take your time and save your pennies. It will be worth it in the end to have quality products.