If you can go the DIY route, do it. In my experience though, they never are as nice or as stable as a professionally made tower. AND after the materials, time, powder coating, hardware and headaches -- you'll probably wish you had spent the $1800. AND finding nice feet has gotten fairly difficult.
I think Monster tower makes a very nice product. They support it really, really well. They are solid and inexpensive and every dealing I've ever had with the company has been exceptional. The looks? Not really for me. Though... I think that a Monster would look great on a Comp!
When I first started building my boat I was cheap on every accessory that I could be cheap on. Now that I'm doing things over for the 2nd (or in some case 3rd time) I'm going with what I should have done the first time. When I decide it's time for a new tower, I'll be ponying up for the New Dimension (or a custom made one.)
Former owner of a 1987 Supra Saltare. Current owner of a Malibu 23LSV.