[rtanaka]

I don't believe there's a single recruiter that's a good fit for anyone / everyone. If you form a good relationship with a well-connected recruiter they can definitely be an invaluable resource for you that help you get interviews that are outside of your network. It's also worth noting that, like most relationships, it something that is fostered over time, not just when you are job hunting.

Quality recruiters are very in-the-know as to who is hiring, what the going salaries are and are able to help you back-channel and get the scoop on people and companies.