Bachmann DCC

[Train 284]

Hey guys. I was browsing the Bachmann site and it says that if you get the 5 amp booster and the system, you can operate a large scale layout with their DCC system. I am really merging towards this, but is it true? The toatal power with the booster is 6 amps.

If you need more info, let me know!

Thanks in advance!

[devils]

You should be able to run large scale with it as long as the locos you are running draw less than the amps available. You'll probably run 2 or 3 bachmann at once, but only 1 or 2 USA trains or Aristo locos due to their multiple motors. Does the booster make it 6 amps total or make it up to 5 amps, it's worth checking out.
Locos standing still will still draw a slight current for lights etc, I have run 4 LGB locos on their 5 amp MTS with no problems and had about 15 locos on the layout. The reviews in the GR & MR magazines are starting to include current draw when running this will give you an idea.

[Train 284]

The booster makes it a total of 6 amps. I also plan on running just B-mann locos because they are what I can afford on my budget. Also, if this system would work, where could I get the decoders?

[devils]

There will no doubt be some from bachmann eventually, they currently recommend the Lenz LE230 in the 2-8-0 instructions. MRC, zimo, Massoth and digitrax, to name just a few, do large scale / amp decoders and there are some coming from Soundtraxx with all the bells and whistles! Price and function varies so check what your supplier stocks and then do a bit of research on the net for the specifications. Even though I use LGB I'm not impressed with the Massoth / LGB instructions unless you are fitting it to a LGB loco, (Massoth and LGB are the same thing really apart from the LGB version is very limited on NMRA standard) Most shops stock HO decoders but if they carry the same brand they'll be able to get the large scale ones too.[tup]