The Algerian plateaux from Andrea at PE is excellent. I think it's worth the money, and you don't need to order tons of it like you would if you went direct (I'd love to be ordering from Mimo, but don't have the capital, and missed out on the deal Todd put together). Without something like that it's tough getting the cred to rate a cutter's better stock. They very understandably save their best pieces for established customers.
My experience so far is the Algerian Tassili grade has as good a chance as any I've used of making a decent smooth straight grain, and so far it's the best I can afford. The Certa grade is very decent for the price, and so far has worked out well for blasts. It's not near as clean on average, and the grain is much wider with some major fallout in some blocks. Still, if you want to make blasts, it's great option. The ebauchons are very decent too, but I don't think they are any better than what I've received from Tinsky or West.
You'll make the $100 minimum in a hurry with a few chunks, and get some German Ebonite and Cumberland Rod while your at it. As mentioned, if you can't stomach that, I think Andrea will work with you.
I'm VERY greatful for PE! Without them it would be nearly impossible to get top quality materials is small quantities.
