Compass VS Gyro

[mtbradle]

New to NXT and I'm just thinking of expanding and getting some additional sensors/parts.

My question is concerning the accuracy of the Compass vs Gyro in regards to maintaining robot heading(specifically the HiTechnic sensors).

What are the advantages/disadvantages of each when it comes to accurate measurement of heading? I know that the Gyroscope senses angular rotation, and therefore can give the heading by integrating the angular rotation over time, but does/can that introduce error buildup over time too?

I've read that the compass can be effected by electronics/magnetic fields. How does that effect its performance overall?

Those are the kinds of things I want to find out before I decide which sensor I'm going to get first.

I was thinking the gyro because that could be used for other things like self balancing bots. Not sure though.

Thanks in advance!