IMO you can not spend too much on a GOOD helmet if you weld much at all. Once your old and blind like me you want something with a WIDE lens and a 1.5 or 2 power cheater!!!, and some LIGHT so you can see WTF your doing. I spent a bit at cyberweld.com but it's amazing what a difference a GOOD helmet makes.
I bought a Digital Performance and added the light and cheater lenses. It's is all I need for the Miller SyncroWave 200. I've welded stainless, aluminum sheet steel, and even some crazy alloys I didn't know what it was. I'm by far not a 'good' welder, but the right equipment is a MUST if your going to stand a chance to learn.
Funny a GOOD experienced welder seems to be able to make a BEAUTIFUL weld with a $49 Harbor Fright POJ.,, but as a novice i need ALL THE HELP HE CAN GET!!
http://www.small-block-chevy.com/ima...weldHelmet.JPG

that's a huge picture,, try it as a linky dink