I also started off trying to use the presets but after a while came to a point where I understood what each tool does and when and where necessary to use them.. I agree that attempting to master at the beginners level is a BIG NO NO.... I had the same approach thinking I could learn to master but if your just learning to track/mix then how the hell can one even think about mastering.. Kind of like crawling before you can run..... So I worked hard day and night on my mixes, read many of books, Joined many of forums , Asked Questions, and have come to a point where I'm very Pleased with my mixes ... And so are my clients.... As far as a ghetto mastering process goes, Not sure what you mean.. Do you mean Loudness, Clearness, Depth, Width?? Or a magic preset or plug in... I will say the psp vintage warmer definitely pointed me in the direction I needed to be.. It gave me a sound I liked and then I would experiment on ways to achieve that sound with the plug ins from logic.. I would suggest trying to learn what all your tools do, then getting a good mix And listen to what the mix needs... I use to get so pissed off when I would ask a questions and get an answer like use your ears but its SOOO true... Anyways, If my mix is on the money then I find I need anything more than the Linear Phase EQ, Adaptive Limiter, And Maybe Space designer to add a lil depth..