I'm an unabashed coti fan, but I was able to snipe a Celebrated 5X1 off the 'bay for cheap, my first Thuringian.

Lapped in 10 minutes. Raised a slurry and gradually diluted (maybe 8-10 times), 10 X strokes each time, then finished with 30 on water. (Razor was another recent 'bay buy -- $10 Giesen&Forsthoff; love those blades, BTW).

Results were spectacular. Honestly, I cannot distinguish this finisher from my best cotis: same gentle finish. Only difference is that it is noticeably sharper! Closest shave I've had in some time.

I guess my point is: don't be discouraged from trying one of these rocks by the $300-700 price tags on the big Eschers. I'm partial to skinny stones, so that helps a lot, but it's possible to experience one of these great stones for cheap (mine was under $60), and it maybe the best $-to-value hone purchase I've ever made. Just have to be persistent.