I got myself a pair of Pentax Whitetail 10x50s from the US after a viewing night a couple of weekends ago through a friend's set. Seemed nice and clear and could hold reasonably steady. Only around $70 - $80 AUD + postage. Some people can hold 12x but that is pretty much the limit and I can tell you I held 10x binos and still could see wobble at times. Definitely a tripod or some sort of holders (or image stabilisation) is needed.
I did also grab a pair of Celestron SkyMaster 25x100s and they definitely need a mount. Got on recommendation from astronomy club and reviews. Again grabbed from US as they were between 1/2 to 1/4 of the price than in Oz (not sure why the markup is so high even with the exchange rate?).
One of the experienced members of the club told me about the Canons (12x36s) image stabilised which sounded fantastic but to be honest after I heard the price I backed off
However, a number of people I have spoken to think image stabilised binos are the best. mind you I have seen some pretty expensive binos where you can even change the eyepieces (think the brand was Lunt?) but then you are paying the price of a telescope. budget can't cope with that kind of money outlay!
The bino holders look interesting and might give a go if my tripod turns out not to cut the mustard.