Naniwa SS's were what my honing mentor recommended for me to start with. I had a full set and used them until I became more fond of another brand, but I only tried another brand of stones after truly learning the set and was proficient at honing. I actually sold the set to a member here from Canada IIRC. My opinion of them is that they are great for a beginner, just as my honing mentor said years ago. I'm not much of a fan of slurry after 3k, but it really does help to remove steel when setting the bevel. For the price, you just can't beat them.

Lastly, if someone with the honing experience of Lynn makes a recommendation to you...don't question it, just do it. Later on while you are "doing it" your questions will be answered for you. I know it's in our human nature to question, but when it comes to learning to hone from veteran advice...JUST DO IT.