http://www.amazon.com/BARSKA-X-Trail-Binocular-Tripod-Adapter/dp/B000A7B9RQ 57$ at the moment. I have those and they're great. They're probably made in the same Chinese factory as the Celestrons, btw.
What telescope can you get for 50$? The Barlow alone will cost 50$ or more. I have a pair of 15x70 and I find them useful. I got these ones with a small tripod: http://www.amazon.com/BARSKA-X-Trail-Binocular-Tripod-Adapter/dp/B000A7B9RQ. Yes, they are too heavy for long-term hand holding, but they're okay for short-term use. It does depend on arm-strength a lot and they're a lot more usable for men.
I'm not saying that you're wrong. 7x50s might be better. I've used 10x50s and they're a lot easier to use for long periods of time. But I'm happy with my 15x70s and they serve as a nice mini-telescope.