Hi radiance, it is a bit different than 33609 in sound (if made with original Neve iron,
more "soft"...it is like to compare between Neve A and AB modules).
I tested old good LO1166 and my own trunny's at the output, prefered second option
(less dirt on low-mid but more tight bass, no surprise-that's the difference between HI-B and M6 iron).
Regarding versatility, yes, I gave this compressor to friend to try in the studio where
he allready have 33609 with original iron. He can't stop to drool using HPF sidechain on drums
and told me that now 33609 is useless on vocals due to lack of "attack" control
From the other side, many people will prefer 33609 just by reason it is original.
Combination of 33609 BD/SNR and 2254C on drumbuss seems the best to me.