When i began i used a D8E, followed by a D8EE, then stropping the hell out of it. It got me started & the shaves were good enough to keep my enthusiasm high. Over the months i've added a bbw/coticule combi, chinese 12k & a couple of thuringians. The shaves are far smoother & i now demand more than i used too. The DMT's were an ok place to start, but you'll end up wanting better as you progress. When you do, i'd recommend a bbw & coticule.