Getting started with DCC

[Anonymous]

I have been researching some stats on DCC systems and the MRC Prodigy Advanced looks really tempting. Does anyone have first-hand experience with this system? I'm open to suggestions. Maybe you can recommend another system for a first-timer. What impressed me the most about Prodigy Advanced was the ability to access 20 functions from the decoder. It also carries 3.5 amps which should be more than enough for an 8 X 20 ft. layout. With a msrp of $289.98, this looks like the one.

[Anonymous]

Hmm... I'd say shoot for the NCE system. you'll not only enjoy the 5 amps better, but probably the trottle and functions better. I'm not sure why you'd need 20 funtions when even 12 aren't fully utilized yet.

try http://tonystrains.com/productcompare/dcccomparison.htm to see what each systems pro's and cons are. Although the introductory price of the MRC system at Tony's ($199) is hard to pass up.

[Anonymous]

Thanks for the reply. I'll check out that link.

[Anonymous]

The Digitrax Zephyr is also a good starter set; like the NCE it has the ability to expand if/when you need it with other Digitrax components.

The advice to check Tony's Trains is very good.

[Anonymous]

Just got off the phone with Tony's and i can't believe the amount of information they gave me and how awesome they are. I told the guy what i had and what i wanted and he led me to exactly where i need to be. Now all i need to do is ask the financial advisor of the railroad for an order form!!!!

[Anonymous]

I just got my Digitrax Super Chief from "Tony's" and I couldn't be happier. I met the guy's from Tony's at the Milwaukee show and they were extremely helpful.
They do know there stuff.

[Anonymous]

Sounds like Tony's has most of if not all of the answers. I may end up ordering my system from them. I checked out their website and found it extremely informative. Thanks for all of your responses.

[Anonymous]

Tony's are great folks to deal with -- great prices, fast shipping, and really knowledgeable. I pretty much get all my DCC stuff from them (except in the rare case that someone else I'm ordering from has a decoder I need for less).

[Anonymous]

I'm still a DC kind of guy. I'm hoping DCC will be one of the capital improvements I make in 2005. I've most have read hundreds of posts here about Tony. When I do make the DCC plunge, Tony is getting a call and will get the sale. The fact that his prices are darn near the best is really irrelevant. His service to the hobby, his committment to the customer and the numerous "that's how businesses should run" stories I have heard about him is worth 10 or 20% more than the cheapest discounter.