Compressors are one of those items that took me a long time to wrap my head around, as simple as the concept is. If the GR meter moved, and I couldn't hear it, it was working. Basically I used it as a limiter for the tape machine first and then to help ride vocal levels. (remember 4 people riding faders during a mix?) I actually had a couple of Fairchilds back in the 70's and didn't really know how popular they'd be. I sold them with my mono McIntosh amps, and other items I wish I still had ...I guess. Crown DC300 were the rage. I was more interested in owning the "fad" gear like the 910 Harmonizer and the low budget digital verbs flooding the market. I also used a LA3A which was used on everything. Sidechaining was too difficult to understand ....and since you "shouldn't have heard" the compression, sidechaining didn't make sense either!!
That said...for as long as I've been doing this, I don't seem to have the ears to pick up all these subtlties, and so therefore I guess I'm blessed not to be bothered with the zillon of clone plugins nowadays. I honestly find it amusing that noobs with a years experience under their belt, to swear by a UAD to a Waves, to a Slate...to whatever. Then their analog sources are so poor, it doesn't even really matter. Same with pres, different condenser brands, and all that stuff that keeps places like Sweetwater a roaring success.
Lastly... I just did buy Boz's Manic Compressor, which I could easily hear...but that thing is meant for drastic settings. But looking back, I think the GUI played a role in the decision! :-D
Oh yeah...still have my trusty 4311 monitors. My Yamaha HR8 kick their butt though.
thanks for letting me stroll down that lane.....