I agree - DMT Diamond stones work just great and the double sided ones are very cost effective. The most common ones you find only go up to 1200 grit (extra fine).  However if you want to get nerdy sharp, you can use higher grit stones after those.  There is an 8000 grit diamond at https://smile.amazon.com/DMT-Dia-Sharp-Continuous-Diamond-Bench/dp/B001DRLI3M/ref=sr_1_60?crid=2T82VVM27641H&keywords=sharpening%2Bstones%2Bfor%2Bchisels&qid=1638633201&sprefix=sharpening%2Bstones%2Caps%2C227&sr=8-60&th=1  but reviews are mixed.  I have one with no problems.

The Veritas sharpening Jig is well worth the cost to start on your journey to sharp tools.

In reviewing sharpening systems I've seen the following:

• Wheels and grinders such as the Veritas Mk.II Power Sharpening System
• DMT diamond stones
• Aluminum Oxide films  of various grits mounted to glass or flat tiles
• Waterstones (and I'll include oil stones)

I've been watching the Bob Van Dike sharpening videos on Fine Woodworking and he uses a combination Aluminum Oxide films and Shapton stones, using a diamond stone for flattening the water stones.

The question i have is this: Will all of these systems yield the same final results? That is, can one use DMT stones exclusively and get the same results as if one used only water stones, or if one used only Aluminum Oxide films?

Clearly some options are simpler to use like diamond stones and films don't need to be flattened and soaked. And the Veritas power system provides everything you need including honing guides in one machine.

But can you get away with just one system and get excellent results?

I look forward to all opinions on this topic.

Thanks for your input,

Mark