I've been making yeast starters for a while now using the conventional 1 gallon jug with an airlock and have been able to grow lots of slurry without a problem. Lately I have been looking into making a stirplate. I just can't help but wonder though, is this something that will really make a better and healthier starter or is it more or less another brew toy (eye candy). I am aware that the stirplate keeps the yeast in suspension but how much healther does is make the yeast?