Properly Using a Steel is no different than learning how to properly do anything else. It takes time and practice. I know that I wasn't perfect at first but once I caught on and the muscle memory kicked in then it's been a very rewarding skill one that I've taught all of my kids.
As far as the 'ceramic discs' and such go, I'd rather listen to the nails on the chalk board.
I guess I would compare it to seeing someone take a straight razor that just needs a good stropping and watch them take it back to the 1K and then call it shave ready. But that's just 'ME'.