We would like to use the VE.Direct 1600W with the 1.5HP air compressor. Does the inverter can handle the starting current of the compressor?
Unlikely. Look at the kW / kVA rating, Calculating the kW rating, this is about 1.2, allowing a start factor of x6, this is looking like a starting peak power of ~7kVA, whereas the inverter is around 3kVA peak.