[cabmandone]

The DA's aren't really "the best" but they're the safest for anyone who has never used an actual buffer. With a DA style you don't tend to burn through the clear coat (as long as you're not using an aggressive compound). For compound I use Meguiars products. I have a paste buffing compound that is a bit aggressive and then three different liquids with varying cutting ability with the last being the finest which I think is mirror glaze.

BTW you can use an air DA. You just want to have something controlling the air flow so your hand doesn't get too happy on the trigger. Sounds like you've done some buffing in the past. Not sure which buffer you used. Here's the one you see a lot of professional shops using and it's the one I'll be buying.
DeWalt DWP849X Variable Speed Polisher with Soft Start