Depends on the manufacturer. I usually don't page attention to stages, its more of a catch phrase than useful information. Some companies (ACT) don't even use stages. Picking a cluthc depends on your power goals and how/where you drive the car.

Having owned short shifters in hondas, i do not recommend buying one. I had a skunk2 break at the ball and strand me, and also they wear out your syncros on your transmission much more quickly. The stock throw isn't very long, just leave it alone!