Increasing signals with compression and limiting? On what and how?

[FattMusiek]

I am using a Delta 44 4 in/out soundcard, Behringer mixer (4 mic inputs), 2 Oktava MK012 condenser mics, a Beta 52 on kick, and an SM57 on snare. My question is how do I increase volume signals on say the kick drum with compression and limiting but without it clipping? All my recordings are too quiet, I am looking for a fat drum sound.

ANY help would be appreciated!

 

[dr.colossus]

are you using outboard or software compression?

 

[FattMusiek]

software compression, Cool Edit Pro 2.0