Some guys consider the pasted paddles cheating, because they're easier to use and seem to produce a slightly weaker edge than stones do.

They do go up higher in grit though (unless you want to shell out hundreds of dollars for a high grit Shapton). After a lot of experimenting I've found that an edge finished on a 12-15K stone isn't sharp enough for my beard. I need to at least go up to .5 microns, which is in the 30-50K range if I recall correctly.

I'd say start with the pasted paddle, because you'll probably want one later anyway. Then get a more expensive finishing stone if you feel the need.

My situation is pretty unusual, though, and I'm hoping that someday I'll be able to use an edge that's finished to a lower grit.

Good luck,
Josh