Questions about Digitrax

[OldTrainFan]

Hey all, I've started looking into DCC as power for my layout after seeing an impressive layout by a group in Chadwick, and I noticed in the Walther's catalog the cheapest starter set I could find...came with no decoders. I already have an engine with DCC capabilities, so would I need another decoder if I wanted to run one of my DC engines?

 

Thanks!

[floridaflyer]

 

Yes, you  need a decoder for each loco that you want to run on DCC. Digitrax Zephyr can run a DC loco on setting 00 it will run ok but not quite as good as if it were on DCC. Also you will probably hear a whine when you run the DC loco on00). Shop around for a starter set though, they can be had for less than the Walthers price

[wjstix]

Yes DCC systems don't come with the decoders, you buy them separately and install them in your DC engines. FWIW I use a Digitrax Zephyr and am quite happy on it, but prefer TCS decoders over Digitrax ones, at least for non-sound decoders. TCS instructions that come with the decoders are easy to follow when programming the engine, Digitrax ones generally refer you to their website or advise you to buy their "Big Book of DCC" to find the answers.

[rrinker]

 Also do a little shopping around. In this forum there have been many reputable DCC dealers mentioned, all of whome have actual knowledge of what they are selling. And they all beat Walther's price. Not insignificant when you realize that even a low cost DCC system is somewhatof a significant investment.

 I too have standardized on TCS decoders for non-sound (which is all of my locos except the two that came with sound). Until recent price changes with Digitrax they were actually less expensive, not the price is about the same but I like the running characteristics of the TCS decoders better. I don't mind soldering so use the inexpensive T1 as often as possible. I used to use the NCE D13SRJ - in a 10 pack they are $12 each if you shop around, and unlike other 'cheap' (but not always in price) decoders like Bachmann's and MRC's motor-only decoders, the NCE ones are top quality. ALl will work fine on a Digitrax system - I have a Zephyr myself.

                                 --Randy