Can anyone make a recommendation on a MRC DC System ( NOT DCC) I am getting back into the hobby after a long absence. I have over 20 older engine in mint condition and do not wish to switch over to DCC. Any advice on DC system would be appreciated
Why are you limiting yourself to MRC? Is that what you see advertised, or is readily available?
The more important question is - how are you planning to use the controller? Do you want walk-around control? Or a fixed power pack? Will this be a single operator layout? Or will you use several throttles as part of a multi-operator and multi-train operations scheme?
Are there any particular features you want? Momentum? Pulsed power for slow/very slow speed running? Adjustable pulse parameters? Ability to adjust starting and top end voltages?
How willing are you to build your own throttle?
With the parameters you gave, any MRC Tech 2 or newer power packs will serve as a basic power pack. The MRC Control Master 20 is rather spendy, but provides many features and options, including walk-around control. A visit to the MRC web site (http://www.modelrec.com/train-controls/index.asp will give some ideas of the features and models available.
Besides MRC, Aristo makes a very nice wireless walk-around system. And there are other smaller manufacturers of DC systems available mail order. A search on "DC throttles" will bring up some of them. There are also plenty of throttle circuits on line with a variety of features if you want to roll your own.
Not trying to put you off, but more information is needed to provide a good recommendation.
Fred W
I have an MRC Control Master 20 that I bought back in '96 for use on my then N-scale layout. I've since moved to HO and used the same controller with no problem.
It has plenty of power and will allow you to use simple phone jacks to give multiple throttle control locations around your layout if so desired.
Since I switched to DCC I now use it as my power supply for the DCC base unit.
They are a bit expensive but worth it IMO.
-G-