and here is an example :
microphone - Neumann U87
into Focusrite ISA 430 Producerpack (high end channel strip with pre)
then into TFPRO P8 (LA2A compression)
then into Thermionic Culture Vulture (for subtle add harmonics)
then another compressor -SSL or Joemeek (just 2-3 dB, completely transparent compression)
and through ISA high end A/D converter into DAW (Logic/Nuendo)
any questions, please don't hesitate to ask -
www.se21.org.uk
samples of recording (30 sec orig 'client's version and then rough unmixed&unmastered recording from STUDIO se21)
http://studiose21.bandcamp.com/track/rnb-pop
enjoy!