replacing CTC going DDC-? Which system 2 choose

[Anonymous]

My CTC railcommand is going to be replaced by a new DCC system. with all the locos now available with DCC ready and the cost differance, I think the time has come to change to a DCC system.

But which one? would appreciate hearing from any of you on your DCC choices the pluses as well as the shortcomings you may have encountered for the various manufacturers

medium sized layout 40 locos or so minimum 5 throttles

Thanks for your input,

Tom C.

[tstage]

Tom,

It depends how big your layout is/will be or whether you want to be able to change all the little nuiances in your decoder.

Bachman has an inexpensive system called EZ Command that can be had for $100 MSRP. (I picked mine up for $53 from Wholesaletrains.com.) It's limited so about the only think you can program is the address and turn the headlight on and off. It's an inexpensive intro into DCC. (Oops! Sorry, Tom. I just reread your post and missed the part at the bottom about the your layout size.)

Digitrax, NCE, CVP Easy DCC, MRC all make more sophisticated systems. The Digitrax Zephyr is a starter DCC system that is upgradable and can be had for around $150. CVP's Easy DCC costs about $230 and is very simple to put together and very reliable. (Hence, the name "EasyDCC"). I'm leaning towards the EasyDCC system more.

Others are sure to chime in on their favorites.

Tom

[simon1966]

Based on the layout size, number of throttles and your number of locos, you probably should consider the higher end models. The Digitrax Super Chief, NCE Powerhouse and the CVP Easy DCC. You may want to consider if you are happy with tethered throttles, or if you want wireless. Digitrax and NCE owners are quite passionate about the systems and will defend their systems honor at all costs[}:)][:D]

http://www.tonystrains.com/productcompare/dcccomparison.htm

Take a look at this link, it has the main ones compared except for CVP which can only be purchased from CVP.

[greendiamond]

If you are already using railcommand, your easiest transition would be to Easy DCC as you would be using the same command bus as with railcommand.

[Anonymous]

We have a group of about 8 guys who all used DC but two have recently changed to Easy DCC wireless with great results. I plan to do the same shortly. In the main transmission you can use up to 8 throttles, however a change in programing change allow up to 56 as the signals are sent in short bursts. The system is simple and easy to use even for first timers.