If you're looking for LA-2A-ish compression, on the cheap side, the ART Pro VLA is a surprisingly decent box. If the budget allows, there are several LA-2A-ish clones out there...
I think it's preferable to hook up your mic to a good mic pre then go into the compressor. Might be kinda counter intuitive though since u bought a nice mic pre to raise the level then buy another gear to crush it. Lol