I know, just what everyone wants to see is another thread about sharpening.

I have been looking around for different options and the best price for some waterstones and I came across the Lee Valley stones.

I am wondering if anyone has any experience with them. If so how did they compare to other brands... King, Norton, Shapton...

I was thinking of simply getting one of those Norton starter kits, but it would seem that I can get at least a 1000, 4000, and 8000 individual stones from Lee valley for a few bucks less. then use my Granite tile and 220 paper for flattening stones and initial flattening of chisels and Irons.

My main concern is for the overall quality of the stones, but I have not seen to many bad products from LV.

My secondary question is one that has been asked many times before and revolves around personal preference... Wound a 1200-8000 jump be to extreme? would I see any benefit to a 800 stone that 220 paper wont suffice? is a Nagura stone worth $9.
lets see 800, 1000, 1200, 4000, 8000, 1000/4000, ... pic 2 or 3.

Or tell me I'm crazy because I think I might be.