Is there the ultimate? Its like a dog chasing his tail. You keep going on that quest to get better and better. For myself I've found I get great shaves off either my Coticule,escher or japanese finisher. I have no desire to seek the ultimate. (at least not for the time being-har har). And if I go out and buy the shapton 30K with lapping plate and holders one of you can come over and kick my butt.