Time has come to make final decision on layout. I already have both DC and DCC along with parts for dead rail and a TRain Engineer set up for DC. I would like to share what I have learned personally thus far. Both DC and DCC work well (DCC has come a long way in the past 6 or 7 years). DC is less likely to shut down quickly with a short, DCC shuts down before you know it. If you want to run mutiple trains at the same time, DCC is the way to go, not that you cant do it on DC but way harder. Remembering things in DCC is way harder with all codes and the fact that each one dose not nessisarily do the same thing with each manufacture. Example on DCC ran many Bachmann locos on my Digitrax DCS51 by hitting power and it defaults to 03 and they run, different address hit loco and type address and hit again, done. But on my MTH I had fogoten that you must first hit 3 before it will start (note is on box now to that effect). Now I will digress a bit and say what I personally like about each of my options. But first what I have found I like. First up I like walk around which is available in all choices. Multiple trains is nice but not needed by me. I like sound but only find it really endearing in steam. After a long time running the diesel sound can overpower and it is easier to drown out the diesel sound with regular track noise than steam (track noise is the accual sound of loco running on rails). In DCC I like the fact that power to frogs can be controled by electronics as well as reverse loops while DC is more a manual thing (still don't understand why they can't do the same thing in DC). I found I don't like the Bachmann easy app trains, but they do work well, just don't like the sound not on the train and don't like the feel. I think if I did not have the Train Engineer it would be a no brainer to go DCC, even though it can raise the cost considerably. Would really perfer dead rail though it is still not ready for prime time, though much closer than it used to be. If I decide to go all the way DCC, I will proubly sell most of my existing fleet of DC locos as the cost of conversion to the type of decoder I would want (sound and keep alive type) would make buying new locos cheaper in most cases and the work would already be done for me.
rrebellRemembering things in DCC is way harder with all codes and the fact that each one dose not nessisarily do the same thing with each manufacture.
It's a common misconception that DCC requires a lot of "codes", like you have to be a computer programmer or something. To control multiple engines on a DCC layout independent of each other, you have to give each a separate ID number. That's it. The decoder comes with default settings that work fine for everything else. You can change things if you want, like adding momentum, changing how the lighting works, adjusting speed settings so two engines run identically etc. But you don't have to , the defaults work fine the way they are.
Yes it's true that different companies use different CVs (Control Values) to control things like speed and light, so you may have to read their info to change something if you want to. However, the basic settings are constant on decoders:
CV 2 adjusts the starting speed, CV 5 the top speed, and CV 6 the middle speed. CV 3 and 4 control starting and stopping momentum.
Function button F0 turns the headlights on and off. On sound decoders, F1 is the bell, F2 is the whistle or horn.
I also use train engineer at home. With three cabs because I enjoy have friends in to operate. Covid go away!.
At the club we are DCC with multipe boosters, set up by members who learned how before I joined.
Moderate volume sound enhaces things in DCC, and there is no problem figuring out which block you are in, as it is all one block operationaly. We also use PECO turnout, and hand throw them, again no learning curve.
DC no problem programing a loco, you don't need to. A learning curve on each layout as to where the block limits and block controls are. You can still throw turnouts by hand.
Starting over, I would go DCC, and remember that most visitors can bring there own throttle.
I'm an old guy who started with Lionel, then migrated over to DC HO when I was a young teen. Life interfered, and I spent 40 years with my trains in boxes, moving them from attic to basement, until I finally started setting up my new layout.
I started with DC, but after a small financial windfall I bought a DCC system. I disconnected the old power pack and never hooked it up again.
This was my first separate throttle. I could have done that in DC, but never did. It's pretty standard in DCC. I have a pair of radio throttles, too.
I never had a layout large enough to block out in DC, but that's just not necessary in DCC. I'm glad I moved to DCC so early. It saved me a lot of effort wiring blocks.
In DC, you run the track. In DCC, you run the trains. That sums it up for me.
It takes an iron man to play with a toy iron horse.
RRBELL: I am a devoted DC user.
This is what I tell people trying to make this decision. Ask yourself three questions:
1) Can I live without sound?
2) Do I have a full understanding of DC wiring and can build, troubleshoot, and repair without help?
3) Do I already have a substantial collection of locomotives that would be expensive or difficult to convert or replace?
Unless you answer "YES" to ALL THREE questions, you should use DCC and not look back.
I hope this helps.
-Kevin
Living the dream.
While my layout's strictly DC, I have operated on a friend's DCC layout. Of course, I didn't need to do any programming, or have any understanding of how it works, so it was simple for me to use. I think that for multiple train operations, and for those who like sound and lighting effects, it's probably the best choice.
I'm currently working on installing the equipment needed for so-called "dead rail" operation, for another friend, who wants to give it a try. The initial cost is what I would consider pretty steep, but adding additional locomotives would likely be similar in cost to locos for DCC.
Personally, I don't see the attraction, but then I don't have need to clean track, other than after ballasting or adding lineside scenery. Otherwise, a bit of work with a shop vac every year or two generally takes care of track-cleaning maintenance. That friend was strongly anti-DCC (not really sure why, but he's generally more comfortable with older technology for pretty-well everything, and his layout is currently DC-powered).However, in my opinion, his layout's wiring is overly complicated, which, when using dead rail, could be eliminated. I seriously doubt that he will go beyond the one locomotive, though (if I ever complete it).
Of course, as a DC operator on my own layout, operations are pretty simple, which is good for simple people like me.I don't need to control multiple trains because, as a sole operator, I want only one train moving at a time, so it's always in sight (walk-around tethered throttle, with multiple plug-in jacks spaced around the layout) and always under control. Most turnouts are manually controlled, although a few hard-to-reach ones are powered.
Layout wiring is simple: two wires from the power source to the rails. Toggle switches on the layout fascia allow me to kill power to some sections of track, if I wish to park a train in order to run a different one. Most of these "dead" zones involve double track, so a parked train is not an impediment to operations.
I don't really care for most sound: diesel sound with DCC seems to me to be pretty realistic (when users don't have it cranked-up too high), but my layout is mostly all steam, and that sound, with DCC, doesn't sound all that realistic compared to my memories of it (granted, that could be attributed to faulty memory, too). Over-all, after spending almost four decades in a steel mill, the only loud sounds I don't mind is some music that should be played at 11.
So, to summarise: I can appreciate the value many of DCC for those who use it (I do believe, though, that many who do use it do so because it's now so common and DCC locos so readily available), but it offers nothing for me that I don't already have with simple DC....don't want sound, don't need multiple control, don't need bus wires and feeders all over the place, and don't need the added expense .
The same goes for dead rail...the added expense would be a deal-breaker for me, and I'd guess that the many curves and steep grades on my layout would rapidly deplete battery power. The layout room environment helps to mitigate issues with dirty track, so while I can appreciate the sophisticated technology, I simply don't need it.
I don't believe that I'd qualify as a technophobe, although I do view some technology as extraneous.
I hope these opinions are unemotional enough for this conversation.
Wayne
Without emotion. Spock would approve.
Rio Grande. The Action Road - Focus 1977-1983
SeeYou190 RRBELL: I am a devoted DC user. This is what I tell people trying to make this decision. Ask yourself three questions: 1) Can I live without sound? 2) Do I have a full understanding of DC wiring and can build, troubleshoot, and repair without help? 3) Do I already have a substantial collection of locomotives that would be expensive or difficult to convert or replace? Unless you answer "YES" to ALL THREE questions, you should use DCC and not look back. I hope this helps. -Kevin
I am in agreement with Kevin as it relates to most modelers.
I will add this, if you have any interest in signaling or CTC, DCC does not make that easier or less expensive, it just makes it different.
Here is what kept me a DC user:
Signaling and CTC was a must have for me. Signaling and CTC requires blocks, blocks that can be easily linked to different throttles as part of the CTC process.
A dislike for the poor fidelity of onboard sound, and a dislike for the din of multiple sound locos going at once. I am building a layout where 5-10 trains will be moving at the same time.
A large fleet of DC locos that would be expensive and time consuming to install decoders in.
I model a time period when there were no fancy lighting effects and day time use of headlights was just beginning to be standard.
The availablity of the Aristo Train Engineer wireless radio DC throttle - wireless throttles were a must. DCC wireless throttles were just beginning to be available when I made the choice to use the Aristo throttles.
I have a strong electrical/electronics background so building my own signal system/cab control/CTC/turnout controls was not an issue.
Obviously my reasons are unique to my needs, goals and resources.
Others will have different needs, goals and resources.
So for many DCC will be the best choice.
Sheldon
I guess I fall in between the DC and DCC camps. I went with DCC at first for the sound, I really like the DCC steam sound. As time went on I found that the remote switching functions of DCC for lighting effects very nice.For years I used simple latching magnetic reed switches for controlling the lighting. Even with DCC functions they simply parallel my reed switches so either will work.I run dual mode, DC or DCC. My main thing is working at the workbench restoring clunkers to as good or better than new condition. At this point in time I have restored over 70 locomotives and wired them for DCC. Using the NMRA 8 pin sockets the DC adapter plug works for DC operations and I can easily plug in a DCC decoder in any locomotive to operate it in DCC mode. I only have a total of 13 decoders and move them around.When I built my final layout DCC was far away for me back in the late 80s. I didn’t consider running multiple trains so I designed and built it as an HO twice around single mainline sort of a slightly larger John Allen original G&D of the early to mid 50s layout. When our great grand daughters come over they get a blast of running in DCC mode with the sound on. I laid out my control panel so that even the five year old can easily operate my layout.For myself I operate in DC mode about 70% of the time. Sometimes while I work on scenery I will continuously run a Cab Forward (either passenger or freight) with sound on the mainline.Mel My Model Railroad http://melvineperry.blogspot.com/ Bakersfield, California I'm beginning to realize that aging is not for wimps.
Solution to issue #1 - the different functions: Pick a drnad of sound decoder and stick with it. Also despite marketing speak touting 29 functions, 20 of them are generally pointless. If not more. "Because they can" results in all the functions getting used up to do things like automatic grade crossing whistles (just blow the horn yourself, you lazy...fine person ), radio chatter, station announcements, ambient sounds (which sould be coming from a field next to the track, not the loco - unless the engineer snuck a cow in the cab or something).
DC is cheaper, no doubt.
If you like sound locos though, DCC is really the better way to go.
--Randy
Modeling the Reading Railroad in the 1950's
Visit my web site at www.readingeastpenn.com for construction updates, DCC Info, and more.
Hey, I like the civil discusion and at this rate I am sure it will help all those not commited. I might also add that the cost has come way down on RTR dcc, so much so I am surprised that some models are so much more expencive. I do love my RTR Bachmann DCC and sound 2-6-0. Great detail (a must have) and it runs perfectly and the sound is good too, all for less than $100 retail.
I have trouble being brief, but I'll try:
My first experience was with a Marklin DC set way back in 1962. Ran flawlessly, if silently, and I loved it. It disappeared by the time I was 13 and my mind turned to other things.
45 years later, walked into a hobby shop and fell in love with the BLI Hudson with QSI sound. Pretty sure the proprietor saw me coming. Used DC for the first few months, then purchased a Super Empire Builder from Digitrax, also from him. After I learned how to use the system, and to tune decoders, I have not looked back. All the vexations over DCC I share and know only too well. Horrible sounds competing at max volume is a recipe for failure for anyone...and I do many everyone. Stalls and system restarts when some decoders lose power momentarily...yeah, hate it. I have learned how to minimize it, though.
DC is simple, can be much more complex if needed, and it makes the trains run more consistently. DCC offers more bells 'n whistles and flexibility without all those switches, terminals, and wiring, or automation, but it comes at the cost of immediate shut downs during the briefest of shorts, decoder startup sequences in some cases, and some of that darned vexation that ensues.
IF it were all just for me, I'd only ever need plain DC, period.
My youngest son, almost 14, already has Genesis 2.0 diesels he's not using all the features of, and he's got a Genesis 4-6-6-4 and a BLI 4-6-6-4, that he's not using all the features thereof.
I as of right now have only one BLI ATSF 4-8-4 for myself, with an MTH 2-8-8-4 on the way, due any day, and other BLI ATSF steamers (2-8-2's) on pre-order.
I promised him I'd get him DCC "soon" so he could use all the features of his engines.
Basically we are just waiting for sales proceeds from one last brass steam engine to come in from consignment, and for some HO plastic stuff to sell, and then Johnny can have DCC. We have already sold almost all non-dcc diesels or steamers.
John
My last ISL was DCC/DC thanks to my Tech 6 and this give me the best of both worlds.
My protolance Santa Fe end of Alexander branch switching layout will be DC because of the two brass Santa Fe steam engines. I will use either my MRC Control Master II or my Control Master 20.
Larry
Conductor.
Summerset Ry.
"Stay Alert, Don't get hurt Safety First!"
If your entering this hobby brand new completely, my advice is just go for DCC from the get go. Its 2020, most locomotives are DCC or DCC Ready (DC engines with plug and play slots for DCC). In another 15-30 years I imagine the majority of the more serious side of this hobby (I.E. the people who aren't doing Christmas tree loops or simple set ups for their kids) will be completely dominated by DCC with large DC only layouts considered a relic of the past, and the argument in discussions like this will be fully between DCC and Dead Rail Battery systems. All the pre-90's DC engines like old Bachmann's, Athearn and Tyco engines will either be in attic storage boxes or the landfill by then too, with old brass and collectible toy trains being likely the only 20th century built locomotives to survive in the layouts of the future.It doesn't take me far to really find evidence for that claim either. I can think of absolutely zero DC operators in my area. All my friends are DCC (a sample range from late-40's to late teens). Some are pro-sound, some are anti-sound; but all are DCC. Its the only common way to ensure our equipement can work if we visit each other's set ups, and those that have DC locomotives consider how they can shove a decoder in there and make the conversion. Would you rather drive a Model-T or a Tesla Model-S? Fly on the Wright Flyer or an Airbus? Use a telegraph or a laptop? Yes vintage equipment can have a nostalgic appeal (steam preservation and historical ambience is arguably the cornerstone of this whole railfan hobby), but in another 10 years that old Bachmann GP40-2 from 1976 ain't going to have the same historical value of say a real 1:1 scale GP40-2 in a museum. Unless there is some sentimental value in say "running grandpa or dad's old trains" the death of DC in large layouts is only a matter of time.Yeah I argued with emotion, I dare say that the emotion of nostalgia is the main defense DC has ever really had these last few years.
I ran dc years ago and had allot of fun, easy to use, lot more wiring but that was ok.
But then one day I heard a sound locomotive at a show and somebody was showing off his small layout using dcc.
I was hooked on both sound and dcc and they say the rest is history. Out went my dc locomotives, converted or sold.
I recommend going dcc from the start, you won't be sorry.
Dave
xboxtravis7992Yeah I argued with emotion, I dare say that the emotion of nostalgia is the main defense DC has ever really had these last few years.
As for me I still like both because I have more DC engines then DCC/Sound engines. I'm at home using DC or DCC without nostalgia being involved that's why I went with the Tech 6 instead of spending hundreds of dollars on a DCC system and decoders for every locomotive I own.
As far as my two brass steam engines we talking a costly upgrade with can motor and a DCC decoder.. IMHO its not worth the cost of the upgrade since I already have a CM II, CM20 or if I buy a DCC/Sound engine I can use my Tech 6.
xboxtravis7992 If your entering this hobby brand new completely, my advice is just go for DCC from the get go. Its 2020, most locomotives are DCC or DCC Ready (DC engines with plug and play slots for DCC). In another 15-30 years I imagine the majority of the more serious side of this hobby (I.E. the people who aren't doing Christmas tree loops or simple set ups for their kids) will be completely dominated by DCC with large DC only layouts considered a relic of the past, and the argument in discussions like this will be fully between DCC and Dead Rail Battery systems. All the pre-90's DC engines like old Bachmann's, Athearn and Tyco engines will either be in attic storage boxes or the landfill by then too, with old brass and collectible toy trains being likely the only 20th century built locomotives to survive in the layouts of the future.It doesn't take me far to really find evidence for that claim either. I can think of absolutely zero DC operators in my area. All my friends are DCC (a sample range from late-40's to late teens). Some are pro-sound, some are anti-sound; but all are DCC. Its the only common way to ensure our equipement can work if we visit each other's set ups, and those that have DC locomotives consider how they can shove a decoder in there and make the conversion. Would you rather drive a Model-T or a Tesla Model-S? Fly on the Wright Flyer or an Airbus? Use a telegraph or a laptop? Yes vintage equipment can have a nostalgic appeal (steam preservation and historical ambience is arguably the cornerstone of this whole railfan hobby), but in another 10 years that old Bachmann GP40-2 from 1976 ain't going to have the same historical value of say a real 1:1 scale GP40-2 in a museum. Unless there is some sentimental value in say "running grandpa or dad's old trains" the death of DC in large layouts is only a matter of time.Yeah I argued with emotion, I dare say that the emotion of nostalgia is the main defense DC has ever really had these last few years.
Well....... I agree, in 15-30 years DC might finally be largely obsolete. In 30 years I will likely not be here to worry about it. I'm 63 and have already been at this model train thing for over 50 years.
I'm building my next layout very soon to play with now, and I have 140 of those recent (last 20 years) high quality, but still DC, locomotives. What happens to them in 30 years is also not important.
And I agree, DCC is likely the best choice for most people, especially those completely new to the hobby.
But keep this in mind, it has taken 25 years for DCC to reach, or slightly exceed, 50% usage in HO & N scale, and dramatically less use in other scales.
It will take a similar time period to get the other 45-50%.........
So right now, DC is still a major player among those of us not interested in sound, or not interested in dragging our trains to clubs or to other layouts, or who's operational goals do not require its features.
My feeling is that this choice is about understanding your own needs and goals, and understanding the pros and cons of the choices, and making a choice that fits your situation.
DCC is a great system, I have been operating on the DCC layouts of friends for over a decade. Yet I am not sold for my needs.
And again, DCC is going to be the best choice for most.
But you might be surprised to see how well the best DC control systems work.
PS - I have no interest in driving a Model T or a Tesla, and I still prefer the large screen and real keyboard of my desktop. And I was converting relay logic to PLC code in 1980.......
I would rather your emotion would have been left out of your response per the OP's request.
Also, I do not use DC because of nostalgia, nor do I know anyone that does.
I started out with DCC and sound I just can't live without sound. I don't like any of my locomotives silent. But I turn the volume to a low level. And I don't blare the horn all time. It adds to the environment.
When I first started out I was learning about both DC and DCC. I got a DC loco and DC power pack and didn't like the lights (changing brightness) and movement was not to my liking. With DCC you can make your loco crawl if you wish.
You cant consist several locomotives in DC, just run them in the same direction.
Its very easy to program a DCC using Decoder Pro. Takes me 20min, and that includs speed mathing.
Just my opinion.
Michael
CEO- Mile-HI-RailroadPrototype: D&RGW Moffat Line 1989
Well, I have no, zero, need to consist locomotives at all. Most of our roster can easily pull 60 car trains, whether with a single Athearn Genesis 2.0 diesel, or a single larger steam engine (4-8-4 or 4-6-6-4). I learned from Youtube new product reviews that some BLI steam engines can literally pull 100 cars on level track.
My track is not level, but at 0.4% maximum grade it might as well be. I am not aware of one single engine of any type that won't pull at least a 50 car train on my layout.
The only thing I need DCC for is control of sounds and lighting features, some of which are not controlled with the MRC Tech 6 (which btw mine wore out and died).
Michael,
If you like sound you need DCC and that is clearly the best choice for you. And I agree DCC programming is no big deal.
But let's not get into what DC can't do based on your admittedly limited experiance.
Consisting - DC locomotives can be coupled together, forward, back to back, whatever, and they all move in the same direction, left or right, together. And if their gearing and starting voltage is similar, they generally run fine together, especially pulling a train that needs the power.
I have been pulling 40 car trains with ABBA diesel lash ups on DC for over 4 decades now. It works fine. And I double and triple head steam locos of different brands and wheel arrangements all the time.
Lights - many quality DC locomotives have constant brightness lighting that provide full brightness at all speeds. And with some high quality throttles, even provide full brightness lighting before the loco moves.
Slow speed control - not all DC power packs are created equal. Some provide dramatically better speed control than others. The DC throttles I use provide slow speeds equal or similar to DCC.
As an operations enthusiast, I find DCC to be much better for my needs than the traditional DC set up. The elimination of multi- cab DC control has been a great thing for my style of operations. I would probably use DCC even if I weren’t into OPs for these reasons:
1. I like sound
2. I like to be able to run locomotives independently in the same block (track).
3. I like the simplicity of the wiring (as opposed to blocks and multi-cab control).
Drawbacks to DCC are:
1. Installing decoders in locomotives – especially old brass.
2. The additional cost of sound.
3. The habit of DCC systems to display computer like glitches requiring resets.
4. Sensitivity to shorts.
I would recommend any beginner try out DCC to see if it is for you. I converted many years ago and never looked back.
Guy
see stuff at: the Willoughby Line Site
I'm too afraid of Ohm's Law to run DC.
Give me the bells and whistles and let the chips do the work.
Chip
Building the Rock Ridge Railroad with the slowest construction crew west of the Pecos.
ATLANTIC CENTRAL Michael, If you like sound you need DCC and that is clearly the best choice for you. And I agree DCC programming is no big deal. But let's not get into what DC can't do based on your admittedly limited experiance. Consisting - DC locomotives can be coupled together, forward, back to back, whatever, and they all move in the same direction, left or right, together. And if their gearing and starting voltage is similar, they generally run fine together, especially pulling a train that needs the power. I have been pulling 40 car trains with ABBA diesel lash ups on DC for over 4 decades now. It works fine. Lights - many quality DC locomotives have constant brightness lighting that provide full brightness at all speeds. And with some high quality throttles, even provide full brightness lighting before the loco moves. Slow speed control - not all DC power packs are created equal. Some provide dramatically better speed control than others. The DC throttles I use provide slow speeds equal or similar to DCC. Sheldon
I have been pulling 40 car trains with ABBA diesel lash ups on DC for over 4 decades now. It works fine.
Really? wow I learned something about DC. Had no idea it could do all that.
I went with DCC about 15 years ago. I chose it because of wireless throttles for walk around.
It also greatly simplfied the wiring. I don't do signalling or CTC because the protoype I'm following (Maryland & Pennsylvania RR in the early 50's didn't have it). So it's basically a 2 wire bus with drops to the track every few feet. Since it's wireless there's no command bus.
Sound is an extra, but I don't always run with it.
I would agree that for newcomers, DCC is probably your best bet. But you could also go a different way depending on your circumstances and goals in the hobby. Like so much in model raillroading, there are many ways to have fun.
Paul
Motley ATLANTIC CENTRAL Michael, If you like sound you need DCC and that is clearly the best choice for you. And I agree DCC programming is no big deal. But let's not get into what DC can't do based on your admittedly limited experiance. Consisting - DC locomotives can be coupled together, forward, back to back, whatever, and they all move in the same direction, left or right, together. And if their gearing and starting voltage is similar, they generally run fine together, especially pulling a train that needs the power. I have been pulling 40 car trains with ABBA diesel lash ups on DC for over 4 decades now. It works fine. Lights - many quality DC locomotives have constant brightness lighting that provide full brightness at all speeds. And with some high quality throttles, even provide full brightness lighting before the loco moves. Slow speed control - not all DC power packs are created equal. Some provide dramatically better speed control than others. The DC throttles I use provide slow speeds equal or similar to DCC. Sheldon Really? wow I learned something about DC. Had no idea it could do all that.
And much more...... I have wireless radio throttles, my operators are not stuck at control panels, they walk around with their trains and push a few buttons, just like DCC operators who control turnouts as they walk around a layout.
With a CTC dispatcher on duty, the mainline operators do not even have to throw turnouts......push any buttons, or "flip" any toggles...... they just run their loco.
I have signals, if you run a red one, your train just stops, nothing bad happens.....
Two or three trains, each with their own operator, can easily follow each other round the same route on the mainline, with or without the dispatcher. the mainline on the new layout will be about 400' long.
Here is what I can't do:
I can't run two locomotives into each other head on.
I can only couple a moving locomotive to a parked one on special tracks in the engine terminal.
I can't control the speed of a pusher independently, while pushers can work in DC, it is not a feature I require.
I can't control headlights independently - and I don't need or want to.
Since DCC can do more than DC, and since DC cannot do everything that DCC can do, DCC is the logical choice for everyone except the most passionate DC user. I cannot explain it any more unemotionally than that.
Rich
Alton Junction
richhotrainSince DCC can do more than DC, and since DC cannot do everything that DCC can do, DCC is the logical choice for everyone except the most passionate DC user.
Rich, That is true. I find setting speed steps, start volt and start/stop momentum a big plus for switching on my ISLs. I suspect many modelers would not like my CV set up on my DCC/Sound engines since they will find the need to close the throttle two car lenghts from the switch point due to the momentum setting. Forget any fast switching on the Summerset Ry or SCR.
To be fair my CM II and CM has momentum and braking..
richhotrain Since DCC can do more than DC, and since DC cannot do everything that DCC can do, DCC is the logical choice for everyone except the most passionate DC user. I cannot explain it any more unemotionally than that. Rich
Agreed, and DCC is especially valueable for those new to the hobby who have yet to decide how or what they want to model.
If their modeling goals remain modest, then DCC will be similar in cost to DC as well.
If they later pursue a large layout, or a large loco fleet, or signaling, they need to be prepared for a somewhat higher cost.