Hello, I am interested in buying a DCC system for the first time. My LHS is selling a used Digitrax BigBoy with one DT200 and UT1 throttle. Its in very good shape, it was only used for thier display layout. Or I can buy a new Zephyer starter set. Both units are $180.00. Which option is better.
Thanks in advance
You need to check the model number of the Big Boy, If it is a DCS200, it is probably a good buy as that is the full featured 8AMP Digitrax Command Station. Which would be a nice start to a great Digitrax system. (My Digitrax DCS100 remains in full service after 10 years of operation.) If it is a DB200, it is an 8AMP Digitrax Booster, which can be used as a limited command station. The UT-1 throttle is no longer sold and was a nice utility throttle and can not be used for programing. If you buy the Big Boy as described you will need to buy a PR3 (computer interface) or DT400 throttle to program your locomotives.
If you are new to DCC with a small layout, the Zepher is probably the best way to go. The nice thing about Digitrax is you can expand your system by adding on and not by replacing the whole system.
Jim, Modeling the Kansas City Southern Lines in HO scale.
The 'Big Boy' does have a 5 amp capacity, but it does not have CV readback capability. IIRC, you also have to keep the DT200 throttle plugged into its port when running trains. It has the 'brains' and the booster needs to have the DT200. It is old outdated technology that is no longer produced. The 'Zephyr' has a 2.5 amp power output, but has better technology(like the CV readback capability). And you can get a 'Zephyr' for about $160 - Brand New from many Internet dealers. The 'Zephyr' includes the AC power supply(a big wall wart); Is that dealer going to also give you a 5 amp AC power supply to go along with that 'Big Boy' set? And IIRC, the UT1 throttle only has a 2 digit addressing capability.
If I was starting over, with a small to medium layout - The Zephyr would be high on my list. I can always buy a booster if I need more power. The base system will control up to 10 trains. I picked up a new DB100a from a broken up 'Big Boy' starter set for $100 from a dealer who wanted to clean out old disco stock. It makes a good booster.
Jim Bernier
Modeling BNSF and Milwaukee Road in SW Wisconsin
Get the Zephyr.
I've owned both. Sold the Big Boy years ago and moved on.
Big Boy is last decade's technology
Two digit addressing only, DT200 is the command station and needs to be plugged in all the time. Only handles 5 functions. No separate programming output. New throttles connected to it are limited to the capabilities of the DT200.
Zephyr, on the other hand can be considered a Mini Chief.
Martin MYers
The command station or booster (I get confused with the terminolgy) that comes in the BigBoy is a DB100A. It seems that the Zephyer is the better choice?
Thanks
DB100A is a 5 amp booster. DT200 is the command station. You need one of each for DCC.
Zephyr is a DCS50 command station and a 2 1/2 amp booster in one package.
If everybody is thinking alike, then nobody is really thinking.
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I have to echo the other sentiments here - For getting started with DCC, the Zephyr would definitely be the better choice.
And to be honest, that's especially true at the price he's asking for the Big Boy set. I recently ran across what pretty much amounted to two Big Boy sets for $100 at a swap meet.
Steve