Scott,
Compressors are a love/hate issue with me. I agree that they are useful, and even neccissary in some applications, but they can also RUIN a dynamic, passionate vocal track. I like to be in control of as much of my destiny as possible - so I WORK the mic, and I use breathing changes and dymamic interpretation to achieve the desired results. Especially in a live situation, I Never compress vocals, however I sometimes will in the studio to get a more even result. This is more critical in the studio because the noise floor is elevated, due to the higher gain and better range of my studio mics. Live sound is a jumble of unwanted noise and if you bring up a vocal part (by compressing) you may just be bringing up a grungy, noisy signal with it. As in most areas of sound reproduction, the MOST IMPORTANT tools are "Your Ears"
Try using limiters for a leveling effect on vocals, but be stingy with anything you introduce into the signal path. Too much effect, EQ, or even dry signal is NO GOOD.
The best overall advice I have for recording vocals is this:
Treat them like royalty - most listeners can identify with a vocal track, but few are instrumental experts. Make the vocals a priority and blend in the music AROUND them -if there is singing happening....it ALWAYS has the right of way. Always.
It is for that reason that I cannot ever consider using a headset mic - there are too many limiting factors that change my performance capability. Buy a mic that reproduces YOUR range well, and learn to use it to enhance your voice. Mic technique is very important, and often overlooked.
IN the studio - stay AWAY from the mic. It's not the same as "live". Stay a good 8 - 12" away from the mic and always use a windscreen. NOT the little foam sock, the big nylon circle that dissapates the flow of air before it reaches the mic capsule. Pops, and Sizzles are NEVER acceptable in a studio recording. If you have them - DO THEM OVER. Don't make your listener hear your engineering mistakes OVER & OVER. "Live"....it is sometimes un-avoidable, but TRY! Work the "P"s and "S"s away from the axis of the mic. Move IN for breathy, quiet passages, and for goodness sake - BACK UP if you need to shout. Also, try to relax and enjoy the lyrics. A good "FEEL" for a vocal is essential to it's success and believability. Read the lyrics out loud WITHOUT rhythm before you try to sing it. See what the words are saying BEFORE you put them to music.If they don't make sense lyricly, then it will be harder to make them musical. Put it all together with an attitude of humility and the product will be wonderful. Sensible mic technique will pay off BIG TIME in recording. Thanx for listening, and good luck!