[Panico]

Hi,
the quality of low-light images mainly depends on the sensor, cq the size and type of the sensor, and the 'intelligence' of the camera processor(s).

If you own a compact, chances are you cannot mount a pro flash unit, but if you could, this would allow you to 'bounce' and tweak the light from the flash tube, eg by use of the ceiling or a wall or any reflective surface.

If you are not satisfied with your 'no-flash' images, try using a second flash unit with a 'slave' function that will fire together with the camera flash.
This means you'll have to carry that around as well, but it will allow you to bounce and improvise.

The old rules still apply: in low light, use a tripod (or a steady hand, surface or image stabilizer) rather than extremely high iso settings, for that will cause grainy images, esp in cameras with small sensors and simple processors.

Usually a DSLR with a 6 Megapixel sensor in low light will give superior images to a compact with 12 Mp (due to more sensitive pixels and smarter processors, as well as better and bigger, brighter lenses).

Don't be discouraged to use your compact, just find its limits and stick to them. A DSLR is bigger and more expensive, and for some people this may take some of the fun out of photograpy.

Don't be shy, sometimes turning up the light, or aiming a light bulb can give a very natural effect, and may add just the extra amount of light you need.