monitoring is important - but it's all dependant on what level you're at...
i've had alesis monitor 1's for the last 6 years.. no probs whatsoever...
i've had releases out on all sorts of good labels...
but now i realise i need new monitors to take my production further... i'm going for the mackie's/ :=]
my advice is get monitor ones.. i love these speakers/..
you're not going to notice the difference until you seriously learn production years down the line.