Vocal compressor Question

[Chad Slater]

I am looking to purchase a compressor and have a few questions. First there are two I am looking at the DBX286S (a mic preamp/processor) or the DBX166XS (a all around dual compressor). My question is which or is there a better one that I should be looking at. I haven't purchased one of these before so I am just going off what I have read and watched. I am leaning to the DBX286s because I really only need the compression on the mic end not the music but I am uncertain if the DBX166 will give me something I am over looking and will need that the other won't. Any direction anyone can point me to would be appreciated! TIA

[RIKKI TIKKI]

Chad,

What is the task you are going to use the vocal compressor for?

i.e. Recording, Voice Overs, Live Shows, etc.

That may help in the recommendations...

[Lonman]

The 286 will only work with 1 mic - you do not connect a compressor through an efx loop like you would a regular effect processor that can be used on all channels. If you want to compress more mics, you will need more compressors for each. Typical karaoke show has at least two mics so the dual channel would work better in that respect.
Also what kind of mixer will you be running the compressor with? Typically you will connect it via the channel 'insert' jack.