For samplers the newbie sampler can do whatever sort of price range you are looking for. You just need to tell your sponsor "I want to spend $X" and they will most likely find some sticks for you to try out. It doesn't need to be super expensive.

For the hygrometer there are a few things to do. Does the cheap digital calibrate? If so you should also do a salt test with that one. As for the humidification device I have Xikar in my cooler. I just check to make sure that they are moist and then leave it. I've actually gotten away from my hygrometers. In my desktop humidor I still have a hygrometer but I also use the beads so it stays fairly consistent.