[Perfectlap]

Griot's sells a modestly priced orbital polisher that produces just enough torque to get out swirls, unlike all the other buffers sold at Autozone and Wal-Mart.
The Porter Cable is what I have but its not my favorite...too heavy and shakes like hell when you have to set up the higher speeds for de-swirling. And with that much weight you have be careful and hold it firmly with both hands or you'll be at the body shop for some dent repair. You also have to buy the adapter plate so you can use auto detaling pads...point is the PC was not designed for auto detailing like the Flex polisher.

As far as waxes, I guess I'm defaulting to Griot's now that its coveniently found over the counter at Advanced Auto -- no need to spend on shipping or wait for shipping.
I'm no fanboy of particular wax brands, they all have the same basic ingredients you just get a little less bite and concentration with all the other over the counter brands like Turtle Wax. I could prep a car using Meguiars and one using Zaino (or similar boutique brand) and only a realy sharp eye with lots of experience could tell the difference. NAPA carries Duragloss which is just as good as the higher end Meguiars stuff. Honestly if you're going to spend money on anything put the budget towards high quality towels. Most auto stores and Wal-Mart sell the cheap microfiber towels intended for cleaning floors and kitchens. Those over-priced low quality towels will wreck your paint in no time. Try Poorboysworld.com and chemichalguys.com have some pretty good deals on towels.

p.s.
get into the habit of doing rinseless car washes and cleanings with products like Optimum No Rinse. Griots and Meguairs sell no rinse spray washes as well but No Rinse seems to be the most cost effective. Professional detailers use this approach on expensive cars just the same as econo boxes, safe for both. And unless you drive your car through the outback every day a bucket, car wash soap and hose wash is overkill just to remove the typical light coat of dust and dirt. Plenty of YouTube videos on rinseless washing. It's much easier on the paint in the long run.