I'd say 3.2 HP is under powered for a 50 gal. tank. doc bob makes a lot of sense, you can get more bang for your buck if you're willing to shop the resale market. Also, if the advertised CFM is 9 or 10, remember that's probably the best it can do under ideal circumstances and more than likely cannot sustain that level for more than a few seconds. If you're going to spray paint, die grind or sand, get as high a CFM as you possible can afford.