Probably a stupid question, but have you considered the RNC?

I haven't considered RNC, are they price about the same? I will check them out, also. What do you like about them?

Definetely RNC if you need to stay under $200. Or a used DRAWMER DL241 goes for about $400 ($700 new). It has more features, can be used as dual mono and has balanced ins and outs. If you go DBX I'd suggest the older 160 VU. They go for around $600 on eBay. Or if you feel adventurous you can build your own LA2A for around $600-$700. That's my next project.

I dont know your budget, but for $499 almost anywhere, you can get a PreSonus Eureka which has a very nice preamp,optical compressor,and quality EQ all in one box.It has a transformer coupled design and low noise as well as very functional parts.Each of these parts can be used separately or together and you can change their order which makes for even more diversity.I would say, if you dont need two channels of compression at a time, that this is the best value out there right now.And the pretty blue lights are quite inspiring.Google the net and you'll find some stellar reviews.

I checked out the RNC and it sounds from you and the website like they use good components and technology. But being the poor boy I am, the reason I look at the Alto and DBX is the multi-functions on the unit. When I add outboard components the noise level is going up! So I need the gate and the limiter, my voice just pushes the levels in spikes, so when need to limit myself.

I appreciate all your comments, keep them coming, I have learned more on forums than anywhere else.

I wouldn't assume that you will need a gate just because you are using a compressor or limiter. Often you will only be knocking a few dB off the signal with a comp or limiter. This shouldn't cause you to need a gate at all..

I don't have any specific recomendatins for a good compressor or limiter in that price range. I haven't heard the Eureka yet so I reserve comment but the rest of the comps mentioned are not my cup of tea.

I'll have to second David's recommendation on the RNC as a first compressor.

If nothing else, you can use one as a stereo comp on the final 2-bus.

I'm kinda' suspect about your need for a limiter at this point. I think you might find that your experience with the RNC could prove out that a limiter isn't absolutely necessary. YMMV of course.

As inexpensive as they are, you'll definitely have a LOT more bang for the buck than any other comp for the money... besides, if you get two of em' you can get the RNChevy front/mount that's just cool as it can be in the rack!

As for a comp/gate combo... I use a couple of dbx 266xl's in my "club" live rig... ONLY for kick and snare though. The gates ain't good for much else.

For what it is, the (ugh, I'm actually going to say it...) Behringer Multigate is... well let's just say, it has alot to offer for the price point, but it ain't a KT or Drawmer. And yes I do own one... Multigate that is... but only one. :oops:

Can't comment on the Eureka.

My .02
Max

Bassnote wrote: It is time for me to invest into a compressor and I seek all of your help in my choosing. I have a small songwriter’s studio at home, with the of course limited budget, but I do enjoy every minute.

I record on a Roland 880EX with a TubePre mic. pre, The two compressors I am considering are the DBX 166xl and the Alto CLE 2.0. Which one has lower floor noise? More natural sound? Can I ask you for your input?

Thanks

My first compressors where a small Joe Meek and an RNC. the RNC is my favorite because:

1. It was very easy to set and had good instructions with it
2. The supernice mode made it almost like two different compressors, sometimes I used regular, sometimes supernice.
3. The overwhelming number of home users with it made it very easy to get online support and ideas from other users with the same gear.

I am also a big fan of the meek VC3. It is a preamp, compressor and EQ. I am sure none of them are the best, and if I could only have one compressor it would not be the meek, but in many cases the meek is just perfect. I have used it on electric guitar amps, scratch vocals, back up vocals, kick drum... It allows for some really different sounds than the RNC.

Hope this helps.

Jim

PS: The RNC is about $185 new and you can get one from ebay for around $150 if you are lucky.

Jim

Atlas is selling the RNC for $175 shipped.

Thanks,
I bought the RNC at Humbucker music for the same. :D
:oops: I also bought the Alto Cle 2.0 (had to be first on the block w/ a new glove, mom said I could) Course now I work OT for it, but isn't it all worth it! :wink: