I've read a lot of forum threads on magnification. No real conclusion in the end, so I chose the cheap route. We'll see how it works for me and reassess.
Also, I've seen lots of youtube clips about honing, including Alex Gilmore's. My conclusion was: get my hands on some actual stones and start honing. I've ordered some cheap razors too, so I can learn without ruining my vintage NOS Bismarck.