Price and flow ratings being about equal, which is the better compressor. I am looking at a smaller 2-stage unit in the $1,300 range.

Quincy (http://www.northerntool.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_6970_200350475_200350475)

IR Type-30 (http://www.northerntool.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_6970_200318461_200318461)

60-gal tank is preferred for storage space width limitations. I have an additional 60-gal tank I could hook-up in series for more storage volume if necessary at some point.

I've done a bit of searching have have read mixed reviews on the lesser IR units, but not much information at all on the Type-30 units. I've read all good about Quincy, but that is not always an accurate representation.

I've had an I-R 2340L5 for almost 3 years now, very happy with it. No problems to report. Though I did go all out when I plumbed the shop... used 3/4" copper all the way around, multiple air drops, multiple regulators/dryers, etc. One of the best shop investments I've done. This was back when 3/4" copper was around a buck a foot though... right before it tripled in price.

1) If you look at the two side by side, you'll notice the Quincy has a significantly smaller pulley on the motor. This means it has a larger displacement pump turning at a lower rmp than the IR unit. The Quincy will be quieter and last longer.

I have a 5 HP 80 gallon Quincy and can vouch for the build quality and got great tech support when I called in for info on break in procedure.

2) I thought IR components are being made in India...

I have the exact same Quincy model. It is great. Comes with an industrial motor (Blador). When I was serching for a new compressor, I did read about some motor problems with some IR models. I picked mine up for $1070.00 plus tax at a local farm store. They also had a PUMA with the same specs, but $300 cheaper and it looked like junk compared to the Quincy. I also had good tech support when I called to ask about the noise dB level and which size breaker to use.

I would definately stay away from the IR. I've heard too many bad things about the motors on them.

I just recently bought a compressor, a Gardner-Denver. I was also looking at the Quincy. I went with the Gardner-Denver over the Quincy because the compressors were identical in options and price but the GD had pocket style valves rather than the reed valves and the compressor was running a few RPM slower the the Quincy.

Go with the Quincy.

Quincy all the way. When I buy a new compressor it will be a Quincy.

I have the IR. It's a 2001 I bought from an old man's kids last summer after he died. Looked new when I bought it. It's not very quiet, and leaks a little oil out of one of the comp. For 500 I can't complain, for 1200 I'd be looking for something better.

I have an IR 2340L 64 gallon compressor. It has worked flawlessly for 7 years, and it was used when I got it.

I love my compressor. It is not loud, and I run it in my garage next to the toolbox.