Shakuan, the twinQcs is a dual channel strip with pres, EQ, and an optical compressor. The RNC is a compressor, period. I use the twinQ as an all-purpose pre, and the RNC mostly to add compression to my other pre, a DBX 386. The Joemeek's compressor is an agressive unit that is more like an effect, making the solid state twinQ sound a whole like like an all-tube preamp. The RNC adds almost undetectable compression to any signal you got. It makes a great combo. When I want clean, I use the DBX/RNC, and when I want color, I use the Joemeek.
What is really surprising is how good the twinQ is as a DI for (no kidding) the Fishman prefix Plus on my Taylor. In stereo mode, I split the 2 signals from the Taylor. #1 is the onboard electret condenser, #2 is the undersaddle transducer. Using mostly the mic, I add in just enough of the transducer to get some presence, and holy cow, it produces believable sound about as good as I've been able to get with any combination of mics.
In short, when you turn off the compression,
the twin Q is a very good clean preamp, as long as you do not overdrive it, and it adds plenty of gain. People will tell you it is colored, but that seems to mostly come from the compressor, and you can turn it off when you want to. The RNC is a great clean compressor, but it is not a preamp, and does not offer EQ. For wicked clean, you can also turn off the optical compression, and use the RNC as a send/return from the twinQ- Voila! color gone, with clean compression. It is simply a great combination with tremendous versatility.-Richie