So - I'm working backwards, I've picked out a 'mini' spray gun, the A.N.I. R150 with a 1.2mm tip. This gun needs only 3.6cfm (~108L/min) @ 29psi to operate. I will be spraying water based poly and shellac, mostly on furniture and boxes.
I've been driving myself slightly batty deciding what compressor to get. Using Trade Tools as an example, a belt driven 200L/min free air delivery compressor is close to $700. On the other hand is a less robust direct drive model with 220L/min for $250. I think I'll be using it for spraying one weekend a month so neither unit is going to get a serious workout. Would appreciate people's opinions on this and what compressors other hobbyists are using.