I've used most of the traditional and artisan shave soaps and creams, from MDC and ABC, Valobra, Barrister and Mann, Eufros, Declaration Grooming, etc. SMN cream (more like a soft soap) provides a shave that is unbeatable, and the scent -- a combination of tabacco toscano and menthol -- is the most intoxicating I have ever used in a soap. For a traditional wetshaver, it provides a bit of luxury to the everyday. I have enough shave soap that I will never need to buy any more, but if I ever buy any again, it will be SMN.