AMP will tell you that their machine actually makes the brass softer than is ideal, knowing that you are about to size the case. Sizing then brings up the hardness to the right point. So dong the steps out of sequence on an AMP means you'd have brass that's too soft.
That machine obviously does things in a very specific way. It must be technically doable to anneal a little less (post sizing) to just soften the brass the right amount - but I wouldn't believe anyone who told me they could do it accurately and reliably with a blow torch or salt bath.
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