California Air Tools CAT-1650A Ultra Quiet and Oil-Free 1/2 Hp 1.6-Gallon Aluminum Tank Air Compressor

I wrote California Air a short letter. They then asked that I write a review on Amazon. Instead of writing something new, here is what I wrote to California Air Tools:Dear Sir or Madame, (Guy or Gal)I received your Model 1650A Compressor today.My background: I have been a machinist for 23 years. Currently I manage a machine shop for an automation company. I purchased your product for my home 'Mini' machine shop. I live in an apartment (noise is an issue).To cut to the point, as of day 1, I am impressed beyond words. YouTube cannot convey the sound level of your compressors accurately. My mouth fell open when I first turned it on.Noise level aside (you guys totally got that). I manufacture products as well, first thing I look at on anything, is how well is made. Once again, you have my respect. Welds are solid, and look nice (I notice those). Excellent paint. Weight well balanced. Stainless braided line from pump to tank (won't find that at any other compressor in this class). Ball valve tank drain. High quality Quick Disconnect. Dump valve where you can actually reach it. Fittings sealed well. Enough of the kudos.My only suggestion, a manifold block placing both gauges facing the front of the tank. Don't worry, I'll make one for mine (lol).Now for the BAD thing, don't worry, it's not bad, only people like me will notice. You used a standard motor starter/cap cover to mount electrics to base plate. Completely acceptable. It's just a cosmetic thing for me, on such a well made product. No harm done.In summary, thank you for building a quality product. Your compressor has impressed me, that does not happen often.Keep up the good work,Thank You for your time,There you go.I am very impressed with compressor.

Good little compressor, it does exactly what I need. Very quiet and light. I have had both the Senco and Dewalt small compressors and this one is a little more powerful and quieter. The only thing is its built like the Senco so the fit and finish is not that polished. Looks like its put together in a small shop. They could refine it some what and make it a outstanding product. The regulator is not that accurate and takes some back and forth to get the pressure you want.

Yes, this is a quiet compressor and simple instructions to operate. Limited run time due to no lube oil in the unit so I position a shop fan on the unit. May be an overkill but I watch the 30 minute time limit recommendation and operate the motor in the shade (outdoors) or garage area.

I use this for light duty projects. It is very quiet compared to most other light duty compressors I have tried and seems fairly durable. Simple design but it does have quite a few parts extruding from the unit which I image can snag or be broken off while moving it around. It stays stationary in my garage so that issue doesn't effect me but it could effect someone taking this to a job site each day.

The quietest and best air compressor I have ever owned and I have owned many. When I go to replace my large compressor in the garage I will shop California air tools first. The few extra dollars paid for this brand is paid for when you see how fast it fills and how whisper quiet this unit is. Quality construction through and through from the aluminum air tank with a real moisture release valve to the rest of the construction of this compressor. Very happy !!!

Truly is worth the investment for a quieter compressor. I tried to save the cost and get the cheap Harbor Freight pancake compressor... Big mistake. Watch the video on the noise level of this, it's true to life and a HUGE difference.Works well, sturdy build, and easy to use.

i work at a rec center, still running ever day, bought in 2015 now 2018...

Use it all the time/ very quiet