This is a good resource. There are so many VSTs its hard to know where to start. Alot of freeware as well.

I'm going to make you regret advising me to ask alot of questions...

Compression: I'm looking at classic compressor for my vocals and guitar right now. Anyone know if its good enough? Seems to have all the controls I need. I think I will be using this for downward compression meaning it will reduce the amplitude of my  signal by X ratio once I hit X decibel level to keep from clipping. Anyone have some settings I can use as a starting off point for guitar? Attack and release settings would be the hardest for me to figure out.

I'm also looking at Rough Rider for compression on my rhythm tracks (drums, bass). Again, anyone use this or feel strongly about an alternative?

Do I need to worry about Upward compression? Wouldn't I just turn my volume up if I'm going to play something quiet or does the upward compression keep the noise floor from getting raised?

BTW: Is downward compression pretty much the same as limiting? If so, I won't need to find a seperate limiter.

Last thing for now: I don't see any expanders on this site. Can someone point me to a good one?