I just ordered a laube magnum dryer. I read a lot of good reviews on it at groomer's BBS. It's suppose to be very quiet and a very good choice for the money.
I should have it in the mail soon. I have a mini poodle and a yorkie so for me it's worth the $240.
Laube Magnum Dryer (includes hose & nozzles)
I had a small shop vac blower. Those are inexpensive if you shop around ($50 or less), very powerful even the small ones but very noisy.
I couldn't do a good job with it on my poodle so I ordered the laube. If you go with the shop vac make sure you don't vacuum any dirt and use it as a blower after. The dirt might come out at high velocity and hurt your dog.