Could anyone offer some personal, friendly advice on a product... if used...

L-carnitine is very similar to the nonessential amino acid carnitine. It performs some of the same functions, such as helping metabolize food into energy.*

L-carnitine transfers long-chain fatty acids, such as triglycerides into mitochondria (a cell's energy powerhouse), where they may be oxidized to produce energy.* L-carnitine is a very popular supplement that promotes growth and development.* It is also used for fat-burning, increasing energy, and improving resistance to muscle fatigue.* L-carnitine also helps to build muscle.* It is also great in dieting, as it reduces feelings of hunger and weakness.*

If you have tried this product, how did it feel? any effects? most importantly does it work in giving that extra oomph in energy safely? (not like Hydroxycut or Xenadrine).

I've read some about it and I don't see any weird or bad sideefects so far. Helps with chronic fatigue, heart conditions, diabetic neuropathy, peripheral vascular disease, hyperthyroidism, lol even infertility in men. 

use the acetyl-L-carnitine over the L-carnitine - it's more available for your body.

I got out of a plateau (not this go round but last time I dieted) when I started it. I also take it for the brain stuff (depression). Not sure about noticing a difference but I don't wanna veer into oncoming traffic anymore. (i also take B vitamins and omegas)

If you DO take it, remember to have a month or so off every couple of months, you don't want to take any supplement continuously, except vitamins.