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DCC dummy
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Welcome back to the hobby! DCC is definitely worth adopting from the start, mainly because it's less hassle than to have to convert all your locos later on (which I'm facing should I decide to go DCC). You're right in assuming you'll need decoders in each loco - some systems will allow you to run a single DC loco alongside the DCC, but I can't recommend this - there's a worrying buzzing noise and the general feeling seems to be that it might damage the motor. <br /> <br />Regarding lighting, decoders have function outputs for things such as this - a good example would be a lighting kit sold for a British diesel loco which is designed for use with a 4-function decoder, giving individual control of each marker light (allowing you to display prototypical light codes). A good hobby store should be able to help you with choosing decoders to suit your locos. If you're starting again from scratch, I would suggest you take a look at Bachmann's new DCC-equipped diesels - decent engineering, nice details, DCC decoder fitted, and ludicrously cheap. Worth a look if they offer a loco and paint scheme you want. <br /> <br />Bachmann also make a DCC-compatible system named "E-Z Command", but there's been a bit of debate over this - it can only handle a limited number of locos (9 DCC, 1 analogue), and has limited function controls. General opinion seems to be that it's worth buying if you're thinking about DCC (like the locos, it's cheap and solid), but if you're planning a large layout you'd be better off investing in a higher-specification system from the start. Hope this is of help!
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