If you want quiet…go with a CO2 setup.
If you need to go cheap, get a harbor freight 1/5 hp model. I have one, they’re very quiet.
If you want a bit better model with a longer expected life, go for a Badger 180-12. A little more money, but well worth it.
http://www.chicagoairbrushsupply.com/bamo18cowaus.html
Chris
I am surprised how long have you had the HF compressor and I thought the diaphragm were not as good as piston models
They aren’t, but I don’t spray with it all that often, not for that long at a time. I do have a big shop compressor in my garage, but if I shoot late in the evening, I don’t fire it up as the noise wakes the kids and makes the Wife grumpy!
I have sprayed with it for 30 minutes straight or more on several occasions, and not had a problem with getting hot. All told I have done the better part of 10 kits of 1/35 scale or about that size with it, plus I use it when testing new formulas or mixes. Seems a waste to run the big compressor, fill the tank, shoot a 3x3 inch color test, and drain it again.
Again, long term, the Badger or another piston compressor will be better for you, but this little guy will treat you right for quite a while at a bargain.
Chris
[dto:]…
I bought a co2 setup about 6 months ago - I also live in an apt., no complaints from either the neighbors or the girlfriend(except when she comes into the man-room at 3:00AM and finds me tinkering[:|])
Totally silent, reliable and simple to use.
I bought a Polar Bear twin-piston indoor hobby compressor a little while ago and I absolutely love it. It is not whisper quiet, but will definitely not be bothering your neighbors, and if you close the door to the room you model in, it won’t even bother anyone else in the apartment. Very nice piece for the price, IMO.
http://www.bearair.com/Polar-Bear-2000-Twin-Piston-Compressor/productinfo/120315/