Interesting that a good number of model makers use brushes which are not top branded which get results.So are the top brands that good. As I have said before how many of us have used more than one branded brush. Not a clue if my
airbrush is better or not so good as another. Just wonder if in a concentrated area a group could have a
airbrush "in".
I have two Evolution Harder & Steenbeck & would be prepared to send to some one who the group could then evaluate the advantages & disadvantages with other airbrushes. Not me as I have only had a limited experience. But say two or three who are well experienced. Best if they did it together but as needs must one at a time.
On the matters in hand I would definetly go for a quick release on the
airbrush. At the end of a session I un-hook and take the
airbrush to the sink & dismantle & clean head to toe. Do this every time & it pays dividends. About 4 mins. a clean head to toe every bit apart & cleaned included reaming the nozzle & chimney sweeping through the brush. Then finally a cup of Vallejo
Airbrush cleaner to lubricate & give a final clean.
On the compressor front you do not need a pressure tank unless you are going to run the compressor night & day. Most model makers will not run the thing for more than an hour a day, if that. The difference in quality of finish is nil (proved that as my original was a pressure tank). The only reason for a pressure tank is to save the motor running all the time while airbrushing. However some may find the cutting in & off more annoying than continous running. I do not even notice that the thing is running.
Laurie