compressors in hip-hop vocals

[jlnelson19]

My gear: BLUE Dragonfly mic, Avalon 737sp pre-amp/compressor, LA2A, Pro Tools
(Digi002).
My question: I know a common technique in recording hip-hop vocals is to use
multiple compressors in a chain. But should they be used during recording,
during mixdown, or both? Obviously I have to go through the 737 but I don't
have to use compression during recording. The LA2A is a new addition -- I used
to do about 3-4 db of Gain Reduction with the 737 during recording, then use
some plug-in compressors in Pro Tools during mixdown. Would it be a good idea
to use 1-2 db GR from the 737 and 1-2 db GR from the LA2A during recording?
Just one or the other? Use no compression until mixdown? Does it make a
difference? If so, what is the difference? I have to record this weekend and I
don't have time to try all combinations.

Also, any opinions on the 1176 versus the LA2A for hip-hop vocals?
Any suggestions on PT plug-ing you've found to work well on hip-hop vocals?

Thanks for any advice.
jn

[BesnikB]

well, I have a AKG Solidtube and a Focusrite VoicemasterPro. I usualy compress the vocals during recording where I compress the vocals 6:1 and never let the threshold pass -6db because if it passes this you will lose the dynamics.
Anyway, when I mix sometimes I also use the plugins compressor (it depends from the song).
Anyway you can check my early recordings before I learned this HERE and then hear my other song after I learned this HERE
Since I work mostly with hip-hop music if you find this interesting you can ask anything else you need and if I can help you I will.
PEACE