I would say that if you're looking for a good piccolo chances are it won't be "cheap". Expect to pay no less than $1200.00 for a good quality new picc. I know Pearl makes a picc for $995.00 that's pretty good. I own one but I didn't like the wave headjoint so I upgraded to a Burkart-Phelan.
I would steer clear of Ebay piccolos UNLESS they're a brand that is well known. I purchased a picc on Ebay that turned out to be a piece of junk! My repair guy wouldn't even touch it. I received the piccolo with a pad already fallen out!
Yamaha piccs are very good and I know numerous players that play on them and are pleased. From Flute World you can get a new Yamaha for $1231.00.
It really depends on your level of playing and what you want out of a picc. It's wise, if you want to pursue piccolo, to go ahead and shell out some money for a good quality one because a.) it will be pay off in the long run and b.) will be less frustrating than having to struggle with a sub-par instrument. I once heard that you should spend more money on your piccolo than your flute!
I hope this helps and if you have any more questions let me know!
Shawn
