Sparmax AC-55 HELP!!!

Here is a chart with samples of db levels.  54 db is pretty quiet.  It might help to sit it on some foam rubber or cover it with a cardboard shell.  Just don't block the air flow or it will overheat.  In fact, a little fan is not a bad idea.

Sparmax is known as a good brand, but I think that one is marginal.  Something with a regulator and moisture separator would be a better choice.  And, a tank is nice feature.  If noise is a consideration, look into using bottled nitrogen.  It's dry and silent.

Don

Respectfully, I would like to offer some advice, which is:  Slow Down!  I think you are trying to build up a ton of options too fast.  I would pick one topic that is most important to you, and solve that question first, then, on to the next one after you have gained experience with the first one.  Sparmax is quality equipment and i think you will be happy with it in the end.

Sparmax are a very reputable compressor manufacturer, the AC-55 being an entry level compressor from them & while it can do the job, it is quite limited in features / ability. As far as I'm aware Hobbycraft airbrush equipment is supplied via Shesto in the UK, who distribute other Sparmax models under the Spraycraft brand primarily to art stores, but they are drastically overpriced from both Hobbycraft & Shesto...............

Without going gas cylinders (nitrogen, CO2) or oil filled silent compressor, there isn't a massive difference between the noise output of the majority of oil-free compressors - the quieter Sparmax models are the slower running 1/8hp ones (which are quieter than the AC-55) - The Sparmax AC-501X, Spraycraft 2101 Standard & Iwata Sprint Jet (all originating from Sparmax). The AC-501X is the best deal as it's automatic, has a case & is cheaper than the other models.

If you want to fit a regulator / trap, make sure that it's a bleed regulator & not one designed for an automatic compressor. If you feel that the compressor has enough power for what you are doing, adding a regulator may make a considerable improvement.

I would stay well clear of an airtank, as it would labour the compressor, the compressor would also more than probably stall before managing to get a Sparmax airtank up to it's 60psi auto cut-off.

As Chuck said, slow down and take a step back.

When I was getting back to this hobby a few years ago, I was told "Buy the best airbrush and the best compressor you can buy. Doing so will actually save your money."  My advice for the OP is the same.

Hi guys sorry for the delay in reading & responding to your replies I actually forgot were I'd posted this question & couldn't find it again!

OK since writing this I've moved on a lot with my Airbrushing & read an awful lot of reviews & done my homework! As far as the Sparmax AC-55 goes I believe it's not worth the noise level or the Price for what you get out of it & in fact It isn't offered on a lot of sites along side the better Sparmax compressors which  says a lot! I can't help thinking it's a repackage of  a generic "compact" compressor marketed for the High street store like "HobbyCraft" only  & is really only for small projects & Nail art ect!

Anyway I have invested in the H&S Infinity CRplus 0.2 AB & I am also looking at the Sil Air 15D Silent Compressor for after Christmas. As Chuck & Chris said by the best! & a wise man once said buy cheap, buy twice! I'd aslo like to amend the 2nd Aztec brush I bought, it was the fully metal better A7778 not the plastic A470! I think the A7778 with it's full set of Nozzels will be a  nice acompaniment to the Harder & Steenbeck Infinity with a decent Compressor.

Anyway Thanks for al the replies Guys.

And who wants to  buy a Sparmax Ac-55 compressor never used? lol ;)

Whoa! That's some nice equipment you've invested in (and i do mean invested).

I have the H&S Infinity in my eternal wish list.

I've never seen a Sil Air sold here in Australia, but have heard nothing but great reviews about them.

Hope you enjoy your new toys and looking forward to seeing some of your work.

On the Silent Aire compressors, I am fortunate to leave in Houston, Texas where the SilentAire company is and their import warehouse often sells demos & scratch & dent models for a considerable discount off retail. They are indeed quiet, using refrigerator style oiled compressors, and built well. And I saved on shipping by just picking it up at the warehouse.

I have had a SilentAire compressor for 25 years or so. $500 back then, which seemed like a lot, but it's still working fine. $20 a year is pretty cheap for a compressor that is very quiet , just a faint hum. You will probably be selling  the Aztec airbrushes as well, once you use the H&S.

Jay

Yeah I think that investment is the right word because I'm guessing Ab & Compressors with this sort of quality hold there value for a long time too! Not that I'd sell them but It's nice to know that you haven't bought something that's not going to be worthless and useless in 6 months. I sold the Sparmax Compressor on ISM for £30 wit out the Sparmax coil lead (That's attached to my new compressor  now) but the Aztec AB will stay on the shelf for a while There that bad for larger spraying like Priming and or using varnishes.