I am just starting to plan a layout and will go DCC. I'm doing a lot of reading and researching at this point to hopefully cut out on making a ton of costly mistakes (I'm sure there will be many anyways!) DCC seems have a lot of positives, but it's tough to choose between the various makers. I've pretty much narrowed it to MRC Prodigy Express or Advance or the starter sets by Digitrax or NCE & am looking for your experiences and opinions on the +'s and -'s of them . I'm looking to start with around a 4x8, or more likely a 4x16 foot layout in HO with plans to expand later as time & money permit (I have approx. a 16x16 area in the basement for an island with walk-in, with possibilities of expanding further to some walls). Any thoughts from those experienced with any or all of these would be appreciated. Thanks....
I would recommend NCE or Digitrax since you can use JMRI software with them and they are I think better quality. MRC is not as oriented to open source projects as the other two.
Between NCE vs Digitrax--I went with Digitrax due to the knob choices, 8amps power, flexibility, building block approach/easy expandability, most people in this area use it(familiarity with visitors/help/and I can take my throttle over to another groups layout to use it), etc. I can get a throttle with one big or 2 small knobs(to control 2 different loco consists for example).
You might want to search for other posts on this subject as it comes up regularly.
Richard
I use Digitrax as well. You could statrt out with the Zypher and add trhottles to it later. The UT4X series has 3 types: plug in style, R which is the old radio style where you plug in the throttle to aquire or dispatch a loco or the newer D which is 2 way radio. You can also add a DT402X throttle as well. The UP5 is a plug in walk around face plate, UR91 is for the R style of throttle and UR92 is for the D style of throttle. The DT402x is a dual throttle: it has 2 throttles built in. The UT4x is one throttle. NCE is also a good choice as well. If you have a LHS close by thta carrys both try them out in your hand. Most people don't think of this. My friend runs MRC and I don't like the feel of the throttle in my hand. The speed knob is at the bottom of the throttle. Digitax has the knob it the top. Joe
Why do you want DCC for your control system? I'm not trying to talk you out of it; I'm trying to get at what you envision your end state for your layout to be.
Physical size of layout is actually one of the least important parameters in making decisions about control systems. Far more important are:
Once you have established what your end state will look like, you can have a better idea of how the different systems support (or don't support) your desires, and the total costs are likely to be. For instance, Digitraxx Zephyr is not a walk-around configuration. You can easily add walk-around throttles, but it will add to the cost. MRC does not support JMRI. You can use MRC's proprietary computer interface and software, install an independent programming system such as Sprog or Digitraxx PR3, or program directly from the throttle.
Just like the rest of our layouts, we each tend to have a rather unique vision of how we want things to be and operate. If you can determine in advance what your vision is, you can select techniques and materials that best support your vision, rather than constraining your vision to what you have already bought.
FWIW, I'm still using DC at home, but am investing in NCE to use with the club modules.
my thoughts, your choices
Fred W
I went with NCE. Their Power Cab system is expandable, has a hand controller with larger buttons, and is walk-around. You can upgrade it when changes come out by simply changing an IC chip.
Elmer.
The above is my opinion, from an active and experienced Model Railroader in N scale and HO since 1961.
(Modeling Freelance, Eastern US, HO scale, in 1962, with NCE DCC for locomotive control and a stand alone LocoNet for block detection and signals.) http://waynes-trains.com/ at home, and N scale at the Club.
I would do a Yahoo search for an NCE Yahoo group and join it. If you have questions about you system, you would find better answers there. Enjoy your system! I added wire less to my Digitrax and love it. Something to consider in the future for your NCE system. Joe
I found it helpful, after some initial research where I narrowed it to Digitrax or NCE, to discuss my planned layout (in my case with 2 reverse loops, and short connecting main line, a large and 2 small yards) with Tony at Tonys Train Exchange to discuss pros and cons for your layout and your preferences. Find out what auxiliary circuit boards you will want as part of your system. I went with NCE because I preferred the controllers.
Paul
Modeling HO with a transition era UP bent
Throw MRC out of the equation totally. Narrow it down further between NCE OR Digitrax. Between the two which is better? I'll answer that with another question, which is better Coke or Pepsi? It's really just a matter of personal preference and you really can't go wrong with either.
To help you decide, see if you can try both systems by visiting a train show. When making my choice some nice folks that I ran into at train shows let me try their systems. Also is there a LHS close by that has a layout or test track where you can try either or both systems.
For the record, I run Digitrax with JMRI.
Good Luck, Derek
I have a Digitrax Zephyr and couldn't be more pleased with it. I've had it in use for about 8-years now and never a serious problem. I've added a DT400 and a LocoBuffer-USB to my system. Together with the two MRC Railpower 1300 power packs on the Zephyr's 'jump' ports, the DT400 and the Command Station itself, I have 5 usable throttles. A lot for my small 4 X 10-foot, BRVRR. There are photos of my command station and throttle set up on my website. The link is in my signature. Just push the Layout button and scroll down the page.
The LocoBuffer was necessary for me to use JMRI soft wear for controlling my layout with my PC and for programming decoders with DecoderPro. This last is worth the price of admission alone. Programming with the click of a mouse is easy, fast and repeatable.
Whatever system you choose, I would ensure that it is expandable, reliable and that it can be used with the JMRI tools and software.
Good luck to you.
Remember its your railroad
Allan
Track to the BRVRR Website: http://www.brvrr.com/
I've recently bought a DCC system for the purpose of operating locomotives with onboard sound. I went with the NCE starter system. Here are my thoughts:
I excluded the MRC system from consideration due to its quirkiness relative to other common DCC items. They are a big company and have chosen to make things proprietary, so it kind of requires you to learn their way, and stick with their products for many things. That's an overstatement, but the other companies tend to play better with products made by other companies.
The two main differences between Digitrax and NCE are, IMO.
Digitrax tends to be more techy languaged whereas NCE tends to lay things out in more layman terms. I'm not a tech guy so the more intuitive language of the NCE appealed to me.
The other difference, to me, was the physical setup of the two systems. The Digitrax is set up more like a power pack, with the throttle, power recepticle, and command station all contained within a stationary box. The NCE system has its command station and throttle tethered from the power recepticle on a 7 foot cord. This makes it easier to be closer to the train on larger layouts. Both can be extended with walk around throttles, but the initial tether of the NCE appealed to me.
As far as other things, like reliability, functions, all of the really important stuff, I think they are pretty much the same.
Other people love the EasyDCC system. My goals were pretty simple so I just stopped the research when I decided that NCE would work well for me. And the price was right at the time.
- Douglas
About a year ago, a friend and I each bought DCC starter systems. He bought the Digitrax Zephyr, I bought the NCE Powercab.
At first, I thought I'd buy the Digitrax system as well, but realized for my layout, with hand-thrown turnouts, the mobility of the NCE system would be more useful.
He has since bought several cabs to add to his Digitrax system, but with a tighter budget, NCE was the better choice for me.
If you're moving beyond starter systems for your initial purchase, the mobility factor disappears.
Either system is well made and works well. As others have said, see which controller you like the feel of better.
Also consider local support - do you have friends with DCC? You might want to get a compatible system so you can use their expertise in setting up your layout and share throttles.
And you might want to consider support from an LHS if you have one nearby. If they have an expert on one system or the other, that might be of some value as well.
The shop we purchased from sells Digitrax and NCE.
Have fun!
Eric
I wish I was a headlight
On a northbound train
I looked at Digitrax and NCE.
The first thing I noticed about Digitrax is that there are a ton of buttons on the hand held controllers that all look the same. I have poor dexterity - I am all thumbs. When I looked at the Digitrax throttles my mind went blank (which is the normal state of affairs anyhow - 'duh' is my usual state of mind!) but when I looked at the NCE Power Cab it simply seemed to be a more natural fit. I am still too much of a clutz that I cannot operate the NCE throttle without looking at it but at least as soon as I glance at it I know which button to push. I don't have to read the numbers.
I am not putting Digitrax down in any way. They obviously produce some great stuff with more options then anyone else. I am simply stating what worked for me.
The NCE Power Cab is expandable with a 5 amp booster available, and it can be upgraded with new chips.
Digitrax will allow you to include things like signal systems.
Your choice. Just to add to the confusion, if I could play a guitar (I have tried and failed) I would have chosen Digitrax for the increased capability. Unfortunately my wee brain needs things to be kept as simple as possible.
Dave
I'm just a dude with a bad back having a lot of fun with model trains, and finally building a layout!
hon30critter I looked at Digitrax and NCE. The first thing I noticed about Digitrax is that there are a ton of buttons on the hand held controllers that all look the same. I have poor dexterity - I am all thumbs. When I looked at the Digitrax throttles my mind went blank (which is the normal state of affairs anyhow - 'duh' is my usual state of mind!) but when I looked at the NCE Power Cab it simply seemed to be a more natural fit. I am still too much of a clutz that I cannot operate the NCE throttle without looking at it but at least as soon as I glance at it I know which button to push. I don't have to read the numbers. The NCE Power Cab is expandable with a 5 amp booster available, and it can be upgraded with new chips.Dave
The NCE Power Cab is expandable with a 5 amp booster available, and it can be upgraded with new chips.Dave
If you like the looks and feel of the NCE hand held, then that may be your deciding factor. For me, I like knob speed controls, and all of Digitrax hand helds, DT402 and UT throttles, all have knobs - that was the deciding factor for me.
Digitrax is expandable too, with additional boosters fyi.
Rio Grande. The Action Road - Focus 1977-1983
riogrande5761 If you like the looks and feel of the NCE hand held, then that may be your deciding factor. For me, I like knob speed controls, and all of Digitrax hand helds, DT402 and UT throttles, all have knobs - that was the deciding factor for me.
That's one thing I thought I'd miss going with the Power Cab. However, I really like the speed control options and the control with the gross and fine speed buttons and the ballistic thumbwheel. I do have a CAB-04p throttle with the potentiometer "knob". The control is good but it's not as fine as the Power Cab.
Tom
https://tstage9.wixsite.com/nyc-modeling
Time...It marches on...without ever turning around to see if anyone is even keeping in step.
I purchased the MRC Prodigy Advance system several years ago to replace an Atlas DCC system. So far, it does everything I have ever asked of it. No, it won't talk to DecoderPro but I don't keep a computer in my garage (where my layout is located) anyway. A Sprog computer interface with a programming track on my desk would work fine should I ever need to perform more complex programming. However, programming with the MRC system is so easy, I have never bothered to look into a computer interface.
I know that their decoders have earned a poor reputation but the Prodigy Advance system has proven robust, reliable, easy to use and a good value (just like their DC power packs). Others may tell you that it cannot be expanded or upgraded but I don't understand these statements. Adding throttles is done by either plugging in more tethered units or adding a wireless receiver for use of wireless throttles. Adding power districts is accomplished by plugging in additional power boosters. I haven't had to "upgrade" anything but the MRC system does include a factory programming port should I need to send it back to MRC for any reason (none yet).
My current MRC Prodigy Advance system includes two tethered throttles and powers a 10' by 19' two deck layout. I run as many as three trains simultaneously with at least two with sound. Most of my locos are older Athearn Blue Box units or MDC steam loco kits. The base MRC system powers the entire layout and is always up to the task.
Hornblower
A huge THANK YOU to everyone for their replies, thoughts, opinions, experiences and advice. It's just as I suspected - seems there are fans of all the systems. I don't have a train shop close (about 1 1/4 hour drive to Erie, PA would be the closest) but I am planning to visit three I found within an hour or so from me in the next few months, as well as looking for any train shows coming up that would be close enough to visit.So hopefully I can get to try the systems. I don't know of any clubs around here either, but I'll nose around and maybe find one. I'm going to set up a practice layout on the 4x8 and run it DC for awhile as the basement needs a bunch of work to get it ready for anything larger. It will need better lighting and a few more electrical outlets installed, plus the floor needs a new painting - the projects never end - ya gotta work before you can even think about playing!! I don't expect I'll be looking to start in with the DCC until this time next year so I should have plenty of time for more learning! My only worry is getting caught up in "Paralysis by Analysis" and never getting rolling at all! I'm sure I'll be posting some more questions from time to time. Thank you again for making me feel welcome on this forum.
NW PA READER:
This resource on the NMRA (National Model Railroad Association) may help you find some local support:
OOps - Apparently the NMRA site is down right now. Do a search for 'NMRA' and then look through the site for Model Railroad Clubs by state. You should find quite a few organizations which would be willing to help you.
There is also a listing of events, so you might be able to find a train show/sale within a reasonable distance. Those shows usually have lots of layouts set up, and the operators would be happy to let you try their systems.
Reader,
How far are you from Gibsonia? The Western Pennsylvania Model Railroad Museum is there. Although they aren't open to the public right now, you might be able to contact them and see if you can visit during one of their work sessions in order to inquire about their DCC system. I visited the layout a 2 or 3 years ago and they were using Digitrax.
A terrific layout and worth visiting when they're open November thru January, BTW.
Hour and a half from Erie? Are you around Meadville or that area?
--Randy
Modeling the Reading Railroad in the 1950's
Visit my web site at www.readingeastpenn.com for construction updates, DCC Info, and more.
Not Meadville, a bit farther East. Venango County in Frankin - Oil City Area. The Western New York & Pennsylvania runs through here about 3 days a week.There's a cool article about it in Model Railroad Planning 2013. I'm thinking of naming my totally freelance layout the Western PA & Venango RR. That is in about a year when I will hopefully ready to start on it.
Ed
Know it - lol, my GF is from Cochranton. You want to check some stuff out,t here's a club in Clarion, at Christmas time they do a show in the Cranberry mall. I usually stop by, since we're usually out there at her parent's for the holidays.
Been on the OC&T too.
I know most people absolutely hate MRC because it's proprietary. But I chose MRC Elite (now discontinued) Wireless a few years ago when the choices were more limited. I liked that the MRC controllers had a knob. I've used MRC DC transformers through the years and they were always high quality and feature rich. NCE uses a thumbwheel, and Digitrax controllers looked like they were designed by a kid in his bedroom (they've fixed that in recent years and their newer controllers look very nice and professional with knobs even). I knew MRC's limitations, but letting a computer run my trains automagically was never part of my plans, so that wasn't a concern for me. I find it very reliable, well-documented, and easy to use.
If using a computer to run or program your trains is your thing, then definitely go with Digitrax with the newer controllers.
An eleven year old thread. If only people would start new threads after such a long time. This is one of the many problems with this forum.
Rich
Alton Junction
Hey, at least people are posting.
Plus, MRC announced a new system now so, like this thread is topical :)
https://www.modelrectifier.com/category-s/372.htm
I thought I was looking at a very recent thread when I came here about the same subject, I am sure others make the same mistake all the time.