OK, well, I think I've figured it out...so I guess I'll respond to my own post just in case anyone is interested...
I've gotten close to the results i'm looking for by editing each side (L and R), and then using the "stereo to mono" function...
then take the mono file and go "mono to stereo" just to have a normal stereo track.
this is far from ideal though...
I'm not sure exactly what I lose when I go to mono, but there seems to be some audible differences.
I think bringing them into Protools would be the best solution.
I have Logic Express, but have yet to really learn it.
This is a live performance recording, and unfortunately I am limited to two tracks...but I have several more performances to figure out how to get the best results!