Can someone give me the how-to of using an AMP - or point me to a post?  I've never done it, I mean gone into a bricks and mortar building, as opposed to seeing an Asian girl for a relatively short one pop session. I've found I really like the massage followed by sex thing, for a bit less money and a good time if smaller menu. Help?

To use an AMP, you just show up, pay the fee, and take what they give you.  They may ask if you want more than a massage, but I'm sure it varies from shop to shop.  If you want to know what you will get when you walk in the door, see a well-reviewed provider.

about ten years ago.

But since then the government seems to be really cracking down hard on them, and I'm afraid to set foot in them for that reason.

If you are in the northeast, and especially Connecticut, things are especially grim.

The link BP gave you to the MP discussion board here is a good place to start. (I noticed you did post there. Hope you get some help) There are also some other non TER boards that cater more to AMPs.  
Good luck

Yes it is true that they vary from shop to shop, and even between different girls at the same parlor. There are also definite regional differences. However as far as your comment on seeing well reviewed gals to know what you are going to get, while it makes perfect sense, it doesn't only pertain to escorts. There are well reviewed AMPs and AMP girls, so you can still know exactly what you are going to get (if you know where to look).