[Patrick]

My opinion (I do 3-4 radios a month). Others may disagree.

I would highly recommend not using anything finer than 220 grit paper. Otherwise, the wood may not accept the toner/stain properly. And a grain filler such as Timberlake will definitely enhance the appearance. I also use only gloss lacquer.

At that point, if I want a mirror finish, I use 400, 800, 1600 grit paper (wet sand), and then rubbing compound, polishing compund, and swirl remover. However, I don't recommend this approach, because sand-through is very likely without enough coats of lacquer.

I'll either leave the finish as is with the gloss lacquer, or if I want a satin finish, I'll hand rub with 0000 steel wool and natural beeswax.

What ever you do, have fun, and remember you can always correct your mistakes. And if they are TOO bad, you can always re-veneer (but that's another story).