If colour accuracy isn't a problem here's a suggestion. I bought a Polaroid portable DVD player for the kids not knowing it had video in and out ... I use a second one now as a field monitor for composition and general lighting. Cost: about $300 CAD ($220usd) at Future Shop and it works great, comes with a rechargeable battery that won't win any awards (about 60-70 minutes continuously on) but really compact ... durable too. It's about 7" across but letterboxed which is kinda cool cuz I shoot most things 16:9 anyway. There's a switch on the remote for 4:3 aspect ratio (it adds black bars on the sides).
rdolishny's idea sounds pretty good...thats probably what I would do...I have a very small budget as well...
You can also go to the B&H Photo website...I saw an inexpensive field monitor there that came with a battery pack and everything...I just can't find it on the site right now.
"If colour accuracy isn't a problem".
But if it is, I'd go for either the 9" Ikegami TM 9-1for $680 or the 9" JVC TM-910SU at $630.
Both are NTSC/PAL switchable, take AC/DC power, have underscan & blue-only and are 4:3/16:9 switchable.
I've used the JVC and have been very happy with it.
Prices are from B&H.
What's the model # of this monitor?
You shoot 16:9 with anamorphic lens or with a camera like TRV900/PD150 that "adds" bars ont top and bottom?
Thanks for you feedback...