MRC's Prodigy Advance

[Anonymous]

I read an article (Dec. M.R. News) that stated: "Don't expect the command station and handheld of the previous product to work with the new (Advance)." Are there any "wire heads" out there who could advise me if the MRC Command 2000 Twin Power Box (model AH800) and the Power Supply for DCC (model AD515) will be compatible with the new "Advance" handheld, command station and throttle cable? I would like to upgrade to the "Advance" from the 2000 with as few additional components as neccessary. Thank you in advance for any advise you may have.

[Pennsy58]

All info I've seen is that no components are compatable with the new advance system. You may want to give MRC a call. They are receptive to questions.
Besides, the advance system is sold as a complete set not parts and pieces.

[Anonymous]

The AD515 comes with the advanced system (or atleast a similar model power supply) the system includes a 3A PS. The previous Prodigy system handhelds are not compatible with the new and vice versa. Once you get the new one in your hands, you wont want to use the older model as the LCD handheld is a much needed improvement over the first.

[Anonymous]

Thank you for your input. Yes, I knew the old "hanheld" would not be of use. I was primarily interested in knowing about the two components mentioned in the posting. The new "Advance" sounds like a "winner." If anyone has "hands-on" experience with it, I would appreciate your opinions on the system. Thanks in advance.

[knewsom]

I bought the Prodigy Advance from Tony's a few months ago, and I have been extremely happy with it. The power supply that ships with it is only a 2.5 amp power supply, even though the command station is rated for 3.5 amps. I bought a separate 5 amp power supply, and it works great. I have had no problems programming the 4 digit addresses in my locomotives and it works all of the functions for my BLI Class A.

[Anonymous]

Thanks for those encouraging words Knewsom. To date, I haven't read any negative articles and "word of mouth" has, so far, also been positive. Happy D.C.C.ing.

[Pennsy58]

Ditto to knewsom's comments. Had my advance for awhile and completely satisfied.

[Meyblc]

Got my MRC Prodigy Advance last week and I couldn't be happier. The only thing that I've seen that could possibly be considered a downside is that it would be nice if the LCD screen on the handheld would be backlit. Other than that, it's great!!!