I've never tried Talbot because I could never get it and I did notice it was available at WCS but thought pretty much what dominicr said below. I don't need to start another brand obsession and if I've made it this far without Talbot I guess I can go a little longer. Probably.There is obviously different tiers and sectors of the shaving soap market. Some of the makers set out to make the best soap ever, while others set out to make a very good soap for a reasonable price. There are also those that are marketing a brand or lifestyle eg, The Holy Black, where the soap, while reasonably good, isn't really the main thing they're selling. Theres also makers like Sebum that must use unicorn tears or parts of endangered species in their soap in order to price it at a point that will make them ridiculously exclusive. Basically there seems to be something for everyone the ones that will be around for the long term are those that succeed in their chosen sector of the market. (duh)I think its tough to stay relevant and in front of the consumer and avoid being relegated to obscurity.