Like so many things... you get what you pay for... up to a point. I've never heard of any of those brands. I'd say drive to Reno for a ski swap. They used to have multiples a year... and you can find really good deals there. I got the Santa Cruz board i'm riding now there about 3 years back for $150. Now's not the best time to buy in any case... you'd be way better off if you waited to the season is over and buy last years models or even 2 years back. I got my Burton Step-ins for half price because they were last years model at a local board shop

As for size... you'd probably want around a 153 or so. Maybe a little longer if you like fast wide carving or a bit shorter if you like more control. I ride a 143 and i'm 5' 6". Good rule of thumb is up to your chin.