Recommendations for Audio Compressor

[robistech]

Well, I think it's finally time that I cough up the cash and buy an Audio Compressor. I find day to day that levels are so un-even it's driving me insane. Also, with the options for limiter and gate usually built into all in one units, the extra bonuses will be nice to have. Anyways, I'm looking for some recommendations for a good, affordable audio compressor. I don't have a huge audience, so I'm not so much concerned about getting the best thing out there, but I would like to spend the money and get something that works, and isn't a total piece of junk. Anyone have some suggestions?

Thanks!

[JaseRossi]

The best bang for the buck is the DBX 286s! 200 bucks!

http://www.dbxpro.com/286S/index.php

They are the same ones Andrew uses at GFQ.

[andrewzarian]

Yup the DBX 286s is a great product. Remember the key is to use as little compression/effect as possible. Look at it as if its a band-aid. A band-aid wont fix a broken arm. The most important feature to the DBX 286s is the Gate/Limiter. It will do wonders.

http://img842.imageshack.us/img842/5309/20841210150931121401706.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/842/20841210150931121401706.jpg/)

[JDavidPugh]

For an on the cheap "disposable" unit we took this all in one approach from Behringer.
We primarily storm chase and needed a simple console and this little feature packed unit fit the bill.
Even including 48v Phantom power.
I only reference "disposable" due to the fact in our line of work audio equipment and water don't mix (pun)

http://www.behringer.com/EN/Products/QX1204USB.aspx

From my experience as a audio sound engineer I would have to say that in a "fixed" studio environment I would definitely pop the anvil case front off my rack of DBX compressors!

[oscarmartz]

I would only go with a DBX for a cheap compressor. I bought one thanks to Mike Phillips. love it.

[JDavidPugh]

I would only go with a DBX for a cheap compressor. I bought one thanks to Mike Phillips. love it.

Once upon a time they were THE compressor...............I have 24 of the old DBX 160X compressors in one of my road racks.....Still purring...................For live venue sound they were and still are the ticket!

Behringer did ok with the single knob compressor they have in the console I bought.......keeps the levels in check and the plosives away..

[mcphillips]

The DBX 160X is a great recording compressor for a linear compressor. For a program compressor, I'm a fan of multiband units.

To be clear, the DBX that Oscar bought is probably the 286s mic processor, which has an excellent gating circuit.

[JDavidPugh]

Such as? Don't leave us hanging LOL

[mcphillips]

Such as? Don't leave us hanging LOL
Such as what? Multiband compressors?
DAP
Optimod/Orban
Wheatstone
Axia

[JDavidPugh]

Thanks........may have to do some investigating into those.

[oscarmartz]

Update: I got my DBX 286 a few months ago and love it.. Amazing.