Oh Oh!! You are going to get a lot of different opinions on this. However, prep work is 95% of the work. The other 5% is where IMO the arguments begin. IMO, if you use great carnauba wax; YOU CAN tell the difference of wet look, warmth and depth.
The problem is to most people they probably could not tell. To me I could see the difference real easy. It is good to know that you can tell too!! I guess I am not that much of a Noob! LOL
As for the carnauba waxes, I use a carnauba based wax (mostly paste but have a couple of liquid waxes too) only. I tried the "HYBRID" Waxes (many of them) and they lost some depth and warmth to my ride so I gave them all away.
As for a great wax to use, AGO sells an awesome selection. As for costs it will depend on you and your budget. I like Pinnacle Souveran, any Dodo Juice Wax (designed for dark color cars), Natty's Red, Blackfire Midnight Sun, Sonax 100% Pure Carnauba, P21S 100% Carnauba, any of the SON1C waxes Drew makes. IMO you can't go wrong with any of these waxes...period.
As for the brands not carried by AGO are a bunch too!! So far I like Vics Red and Polish Angel Jubilee wax. I could go on and on and you would die from boredom!!!...:bash:
You will get comments regarding durability issues and that will depend on you.
I like applying a sealant then top it off with a wax.....try that and you will even notice more of a difference for the better and durability issues will be NO MORE!!! I have a Black Ride too and IMO Black is the toughest color to take care of and the easiest color to tell if it needs correcting. It is also the best looking color if you do it right!! Now I know I am gonna cause a ruckus, however, it will be all good!! :buffing::cruisin: