Hello, I am astonished at the responses to your post. I see ton's of "use this, use that" and ton's of "this is crap, that rules, your a loser if you don't use this" However one thing I have yet to see is an actual ANSWER to your question. So here goes my answer to what compressor's I use:
4=Ashly cl-100
2=aphex expressor (9651's in my dbx 900 rack)
2=aphex compellor (9301a also in the dbx 900 rack)
1=dbx 263
2=alesis 3630
2=dbx 160a
1=
presonus acp-88
and I also own but do NOT use because of trial and "ewwww!" lol a dod r-825, behringer composer, and behringer autocom pro's (they will remain for dire emergency, or live use)
Now to attempt to help with your situation. It would be a little easier if I knew your finance's and your actual application but here goes:
The FMR RNC is a great compressor for the money and I plan on purchasing one myself
If you could possibly afford it an 1176 is the perfect compressor for voice work and the new ones are excellent and usually around $1,600
You did not mention what kind of pre-amp your using, The pre-amp is a major part of the chain, as is the cables. As for cables I have never heard a cable effect the transparency of the signal like ZAOLLA. They are expensive but I have spent ALOT more to get alot less sound difference. Your signal chain is only as good as your weakest link.
I must also say that Roger Nichol's with a behringer could probably do more than a hack with an 1176 so talent is a priority as well lol.
If you would like my advice try either the mindprint envoice ($600), or the presonus eureka ($500) they are both mic pre's with exceptional compressor's and eq's. I have actually a/b'd both to
a focusrite liquid channel,
focusrite isa 220, manley dual mono, and api mic pre and they both shockingly held their own. The only one that was a obvious winner was the isa 220, but both pre-amps definately sounded worthy of being in the same room.
On a personal note I would like to say I am not pleased with the liquid channel it to me was a complete waste of $3,600 !!! Focusrite should leave digital modeling to Line6 lol.
I hope this helps, if you tell me a little more about your existing set-up (mic's, pre-amps, converter's, etc.) I could try and help a little more.
