#What a Waste of $400
I've had the same experience, and I know how frustrating it can be.
What you probably are not doing is using the "trace options" to set the way
your bitmap is being handled. You can adjust whether your logo is "mostly
curves," "mostly lines," etc., as well as whether it should be traced
"tight," "medium," or "loose."
Also, there is a control (the default I believe is 8) which tells
CorelTrace how much "dirt" to take out or leave in. Try a lower number.
Also, you might want to take another look at the manual (I don't enjoy them
either!). Some good info is lurking between their covers!
Good luck!
..Bob