Trains.com

Subscriber & Member Login

Login, or register today to interact in our online community, comment on articles, receive our newsletter, manage your account online and more!

DCC for under $200?

1676 views
4 replies
1 rating 2 rating 3 rating 4 rating 5 rating
  • Member since
    April 2003
  • 305,205 posts
DCC for under $200?
Posted by Anonymous on Thursday, June 3, 2004 3:25 PM
well, as im sure you know, in my thread about building walkaround throttles, a lot of people told me to go with DCC. Now, i can do that, but im on a real low budget, so does anyone know of a DCC system available for say... under $200?
  • Member since
    March 2002
  • From: Elgin, IL
  • 3,677 posts
Posted by orsonroy on Thursday, June 3, 2004 3:45 PM
In the USA, there are three basic DCC sets that are $20-$30 under $200, if you hunt around:

Atlas Master
Digitrax Zephyr
MRC Prodigy

The Atlas system is made by Lenz, who also makes systems for Roco and Marklin.

Of course, these are basic systems consisting of a power supply and base station/throttle. You still have to buy decoders seperately ($17 is the cheapest I've seen), as well as other throttles and accessories. If you want a $200 set, you're REALLY looking at at least a $300 set, once you factor in a second cab and a couple of basic decoders (not to mention wire, fascia panels, etc)

Ray Breyer

Modeling the NKP's Peoria Division, circa 1943

  • Member since
    April 2003
  • 305,205 posts
Posted by Anonymous on Friday, June 4, 2004 6:43 PM
The best entry level system currently available is the Digitrax Zephyr, of the three listed above. I know if you shop one of the internet companies you should be able to get a good price on it. If you don't have a credit card or it is maxed out, you can send a money order.

Two mail order companies I always here good about are 1) Loy'sToys and 2) Tony'sTrains.
  • Member since
    April 2003
  • 305,205 posts
Posted by Anonymous on Friday, June 4, 2004 9:52 PM
QUOTE: Originally posted by rsn48

The best entry level system currently available is the Digitrax Zephyr, of the three listed above.


I agree - my Z is great!

I got it thru Tony's.

- George
  • Member since
    April 2003
  • 305,205 posts
Posted by Anonymous on Monday, June 7, 2004 9:33 AM
I really like my Atlas Commander and it was $120. If you add the walk-around throttle, that will be another $100. It is easy to use and the throttle is so "1-hand-friendly".

Just my thoughts.

Subscriber & Member Login

Login, or register today to interact in our online community, comment on articles, receive our newsletter, manage your account online and more!

Users Online

Search the Community

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
Model Railroader Newsletter See all
Sign up for our FREE e-newsletter and get model railroad news in your inbox!