My experience as well. I started with a Nani 12K to "refresh" and maintain my razors, but as my purchasing habits centered on antique buys, I quickly found myself realizing that what I had need far more than a few strokes on a 12K.
My eyes were truely opened taking the shave tests, particularly, the 1K shave test. I had no irritation and it wasn't unpleasant. Wow was that the moment for me.
And, while there are variable tests to check progress, laying that steel to skin is the only way you will be able to check true honing progress(in my lowly opinion)
I'd love to have a Chosera 1K, but I bought a King 1K and am just as happy with it.
While there are several good threads on bevel setting and setters, here's a review of sorts that Glen put together that aggregates a lot of data regarding many of the 1K stones out there. It's not meant to be comprehensive, but as Glen says, a "rundown".
http://straightrazorpalace.com/hones...l-setting.html
Hope that helps.
ps-that being said, my first stone was a 12K and I have no doubt that if your honing technique is careful, measured and precise, that you'll have no problems refreshing a pro-honed edge that has not been damaged. YMMV
:chapeau