What am I missing out on?
Hello, Paulsen:
If I may suggest this: Start off with a 22 mm. pure badger brush that costs around $30. That's good for starters. Try it out for a while and see what you think. You also can find a good boar brush around $25. Try that, too. Both of those brushes will give you a good start.
I have both badger and boar brushes, and they work well with soap and cream.
There is plenty of time to begin inching up toward the more expensive brushes. Are the expensive brushes worth the money? Some are and some not. It's a question what they are worth to you.
Either way, experience the starters first and you'll be better prepared to approach the more expensive brushes. Please keep us posted.
Regards,
Obie