Are there any simple machines that a complete noob could use to aid in honing? I'm sure that hand-honing by an expert would give the best results, but would something like a paper-disk sharpener possibly give better results then my first attempt at hand honing?

I am still planning on sending my razor out to a honemeister when it arrives, but I'm just thinking ahead. I'd hate to spend all the money on a set of hones and then end up ruining my blade in a month when I try my own honing.

I guess I could just buy a second razor, and alternate sending them out for honing.... Man, this can get to be an expensive hobby! definitely will be hiding the credit card statement from the wife for while