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I recently was seeking the same information as you are now. I did extensive research as many here have suggested. The key to making the final decision was the specifics of my layout. After I carefully studied my track plan, which is quite large (36'x30' and mainline 350'+), the anticipated average number of operators (3 to 4), and of course my budget. Each layout is different therefore, have different requirements. For me (and my two boys), the Zephyr seemed the logical choice. I liked the low cost to get started, and the ability to upgrade as we go. Since my trackplan is quite large, I have been building in stages. I have the benchwork, track, and wiring installed in the first stage. It is just over 100' of mainline along with a 10 track yard, 12' long industrial area and includes two 13' passing sidings. This has allowed us to start operating. 10 locomotives with decoders, but rarely have all of them assigned at one time. I bring this up because I was leary of the Zephyr because of the 10 address and the 2.5 amp limitations. This has not been a problem as of yet. All three of us operate at the same time. I run the yard with two SW1500's MU'd together, one of my boy's will run the through freights with three GP's or SD's MU'd together, and the my other son will run the local with two GP's MU'd together. That only uses seven of the addresses leaving three left. The 10 address limitation has never limited our operations, once my Dad ran with us and only then did his through freight bring us up to the 10 address limitation. Nor has the 2.5 amp limitation limited our operations. I guess it is because, no one throttle is ever at 100% at the same time, and rarely is more than one throttle initiating a start. Most of my engines are old Athearn to boot. My point is that I wanted the most bang for my buck. I am satisfied with my decsion to start with the Zephyr. It is probably at its limits right now, but I will just add a booster to my next phase of track work to solve that problem. For the price, I don't think you can beat the Zephyr. I especially like the ability to readback my decoder CV's. Without this feature, I believe I would have drove myself nuts configuring my decoders in the beginning. Hope that helps you in your search. Mike in Tulsa-BNSF territory
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