Basically the short list seems to be about resale... From a playing cue perspective I can tell you that the guys that are willing to go very far in adjusting everything to satisfy a player are few and far between.... Several would flat out tell you if you don't like the hit go somewhere else.....
2014 Update:
George Balabushka Was And Always Will Be
The Obvious Father Of Great Cue Makers So
I've Listed My Top 10 After That Clear Choice.
Keith Josey
John (jack) Madden
sugartree (want to try one)
Southwest (ditto)
Tim Scruggs
Alternate: Sheldon Lebow