I didn't see your other post asking about speedlites vs monolights, but to answer your questions on this post see below:
1) The Godox monolights you mentioned do seem like affordable studio lights, but from my experience with speedlites and monolights is that you essentially get what you pay for. I recommend doing your research on this brand and see if there are other reviews online. Key things I'd be paying attention to are issues with accurate color temperature, consistency in firing the flash for every shutter release, any issues with overheating, and the quality of the brackets for attaching them to a light stand. If all checks out, then I'd say go for them.
2) Another thing to consider with any monolight brand is the cost of their accessories. Some brands require a proprietary speed ring to attach proprietary light modifiers and reflectors. Also check to see their pricing on umbrellas, softboxes, and other modifiers is reasonable. Most of the big brands have speed rings that can fit standard light modifiers from other brands.
3) Once you've decided on what monolight you want to purchase, the next thing is to buy some decent light stands. Some brands sell their lights in kits that include them, but the stands are usually low quality and are flimsy. You're probably gonna ask what makes a good light stand? IMO, one that can support 5 times the weight of the monolight and have the ability to be weighed down by sand bags to provided added stability. Look for stands that can extend to at least 7 feet so they give you more flexibility on positioning the light on the subject.
Alternatives:
1) If you live in the US or Canada, then Paul C Buff's Alienbee monolights are great for beginners. They're reasonably priced and their accessories are more affordable compared to big brands like Profoto, Broncolor and Westscott. Only problem is they do charge a bit much for shipping.
2) Elinchrom's D-light Rx system is also relatively affordable. You can find a kit with 2 400w/s monolights, stands and softboxes for around $850 from B&H or Adorama.
Thanks David, some very good points there.
Of course, I understand that paying more often gives you more, although I also find that this is clearly not a linear relationship. I find that for many things, you can often get 80-90% as good for a fraction of the price, but it requires patience and a lot of perspicacity while you shop.
From my understanding, Godox has a good reputation as an entry level photography equipment provider, but surely can't be on par with the big guys. I'm not that concerned about the color temperature or overheating. Since I'm only an amateur, I have the time to deal with color adjustments in PP and also plan on doing quite a bit of B&W. I also don't plan on doing very intensive use so unless there really is a design issue, I doubt I'd overheat the thing much (although there is no fan onboard). Power stability and robustness are my main concern and I can't find much reliable info on that model from the net. If that is worth anything, Adorama appears to use Godox lower end variant of the strobe as their 'Flashpoint Budget Studio 300' strobe. The main disadvantage I see is that there is no HSS possibility with lower end monolights.
From my understanding, they have universal head with adapters for major brands of modifiers.
Alien bees are quite interesting, but again, they are more than 2.5 times more expensive at similar ratings. They do get 1 more stop of power adjustment, a more powerful modelling light and some track record, but I've not heard only good things about ABs.
Sadly, Einsteins or Elinchroms are just too expensive for me right now...
