Don't get my post wrong: I'm sure cnote does a spectacular job at what he's doing. Demand speaks for itself.
On one of my cars I've become VERY particular. The process for me involves the following:
1) Wash
2) Clay bar
3) Use quick detailer to wipe down car after clay bar
4) Use strong product for scratch removal with a porter-cable dual action polisher. (I like Hi-Temp Extreme Cut Leveller)
5) Use medium product to start bringing out shine (Meguiar's #83)
6) Use finer cleaner polish to further bring out shine (Meguiar's #80)
7) Use pure polish to remove last traces of any scrath/swirl/etc.
8) Use pure glaze on car (Meguiar's #7).
9) Use polymer sealant (Meguiar's #20).
10) After curing, use at least 2 layers of carnuaba wax (Pinnacle Souveran).
Enjoy shine. Drive car 150 miles on a Sunday - clean off when I get home. Park for another week or so.
No one is doing steps 1-10 for $40. (not likely even for $150).