if you can get "farecla" G3 compound this is the absolute best stuff I have found for bringing the shine back, it is a very fine compound that will remove light scratches and dullness in the paint, polishes like meguiars and auto glym are waxes and do not have any cutting capabilities, you have done exactly the right thing with the 2000 grit paper, and you are literally 2 stages away from a really good finish, The rubbing compound is a much harsher form of the polishing compound. if you can find a local car paint supplier ask them if they supply it this will bring the shine back, you apply it on a damp cloth and apply in straight lines across the panel unlike wax which is done is circles and as it cuts back the paint it brings the shine back, after that use any wax polish you have and you will have a lovely finish, I have never machine polished a car and have always done it by hand and I swear by Farecla G3 and auto glym.