I need a bit of advise please. I have just made the jump into airbrushing and have purchased a Paasche H (supposed to be good for beginners), and am having trouble deciding on an air compressor. I live in an apartment so a garage style is out of the question. What would you recommend? How much hp do I need? I have been looking at the Paasche D-500, is this sufficient? Will I need a regulator and moisture trap for it? I primarily use Model Master enamels, so will I need something with more power?. Please help, I am so confused…
Hi, welcome to the forums. I use a Paasche H also. I use the Paasche D200 with Paasche Moisture Trap/Regulator. It has more than enough power for the Paasche H. You can buy the compressor and moisture trap/regulator combination from Dixie Art for $150 shipped. The D500 is 1/10 horse power and the D200 is 1/6 horse power. You can compare them here: http://dixieart.com/Paasche_Compressors.html
I have had very good luck with the folks at AirBrush City, Nampa, ID. I have their double action brush as well as their compressor 144AC and it was a good deal.
The Paasche H is a real classic and my first AB dated back to the 80’s. The package looks identical to mine and still costs about one single box model.
It requires “Recommended Air Pressure .5 to 1 CFM @ 20 to 45 lbs (psi). depending on tip size and fluid being sprayed”. The flow rate and pressure are beyond those provided by most low end airbrush compressors. See the June 2008 issue of FSM for comparison of compressors. The Paasche D500 is workable, but marginal.
At slightly higher price range, I like the Paasche DA400. It is a better match to your Paasche H AB. (Yes, low end AB needs more powerful compressor.)