Which DCC is top dog?

[cacole]

This is one of those questions that has many answers, depending on the individual respondent's experience, preferences, and layout. Your best bet would be to get on the Internet and download the instruction manuals to each system that has been mentioned in these messages; i.e., EasyDCC, Lenz, Wangrow, Digitrax, NCE, Atlas, etc. By glancing through the manuals, you can get a pretty good idea about how easy or complicated a particular system is. As long as a system is NMRA-compliant, their only difference other than price is the number of bells and whistles that can be attached. EasyDCC, for example, comes with two fixed cabs (controllers) and offers easily added tethered and wireless throttles. Based on my personal experience, I would avoid the Atlas Master because it is too limited. I know two modelers who purchased the Atlas system but trashed it in favor of EasyDCC or Digitrax within a couple of months. Again, it's a matter of personal preference. One person had to switch because he couldn't read the Atlas LCD panel (red on black), so if you have any form of color blindness this will definitely have an impact on which system you should consider. Unfortunately, most systems don't indicate in their documentation what the color of their LCD panels are.

[cacole]

This is one of those questions that has many answers, depending on the individual respondent's experience, preferences, and layout. Your best bet would be to get on the Internet and download the instruction manuals to each system that has been mentioned in these messages; i.e., EasyDCC, Lenz, Wangrow, Digitrax, NCE, Atlas, etc. By glancing through the manuals, you can get a pretty good idea about how easy or complicated a particular system is. As long as a system is NMRA-compliant, their only difference other than price is the number of bells and whistles that can be attached. EasyDCC, for example, comes with two fixed cabs (controllers) and offers easily added tethered and wireless throttles. Based on my personal experience, I would avoid the Atlas Master because it is too limited. I know two modelers who purchased the Atlas system but trashed it in favor of EasyDCC or Digitrax within a couple of months. Again, it's a matter of personal preference. One person had to switch because he couldn't read the Atlas LCD panel (red on black), so if you have any form of color blindness this will definitely have an impact on which system you should consider. Unfortunately, most systems don't indicate in their documentation what the color of their LCD panels are.

[randybc2003]

My experience with computers taught me one thing. Get the biggest, strongest most powerful system you can afford. It is going to be obsolete in 6 months.

Of 6 sources in my area (3 general hoby shops, 2 specialized hobyshops, and one very commited discount store) 3 carried DIGITRAX in stock. Of 3 clubs in the area, 2 used DIGITRAX. ( the other still uses the cab control - believe it or not!)

I considered interchange between layout types. Atlas has to be opened up and a jumper placed. Digitax system can run analog units, and digitrax locos can run on analog track. MU operations are more realistic and number assignment is easy to remember, using the full number on the cab side. MRC seemed obtuse to operate in MU, and assignments. Other units didn't seem to be around nearby. One hoby shop actually had "classes" in DIGITRAX operation. Most of the guys around here seem to be using Digitax.

I purcased the Digitrax CHIEF (100 ir throttle), driving it with a ATLAS generator.
I read the opereations manual from cover to cover. Learning was wrestling w/ a squid/ocotpus tag team. I learned to speak 'FRENCH". The manual had a lot to be desired. I did master it - more or less. Fellow club members helped me understand basic operations, and continued use has improved my abilities. I have installed and programed my own (plug & play) decoders.

Digitrax is expanding w/ detection, signals, and other stuff. I am convinced I made the right choice.

[randybc2003]

My experience with computers taught me one thing. Get the biggest, strongest most powerful system you can afford. It is going to be obsolete in 6 months.

Of 6 sources in my area (3 general hoby shops, 2 specialized hobyshops, and one very commited discount store) 3 carried DIGITRAX in stock. Of 3 clubs in the area, 2 used DIGITRAX. ( the other still uses the cab control - believe it or not!)

I considered interchange between layout types. Atlas has to be opened up and a jumper placed. Digitax system can run analog units, and digitrax locos can run on analog track. MU operations are more realistic and number assignment is easy to remember, using the full number on the cab side. MRC seemed obtuse to operate in MU, and assignments. Other units didn't seem to be around nearby. One hoby shop actually had "classes" in DIGITRAX operation. Most of the guys around here seem to be using Digitax.

I purcased the Digitrax CHIEF (100 ir throttle), driving it with a ATLAS generator.
I read the opereations manual from cover to cover. Learning was wrestling w/ a squid/ocotpus tag team. I learned to speak 'FRENCH". The manual had a lot to be desired. I did master it - more or less. Fellow club members helped me understand basic operations, and continued use has improved my abilities. I have installed and programed my own (plug & play) decoders.

Digitrax is expanding w/ detection, signals, and other stuff. I am convinced I made the right choice.

[Anonymous]

Thanks to all that responded!

After reading all the replies, reading mfg data sheets and getting info overload migraines, I have decided to go with NCE.

The NCE Powerhouse Pro 5 Amp DCC System seems to fit my needs the best. I like the Pro Cab plain English display. This seemed to be the one thing that kept me intrested in the NCE system. Although digitrax and other systems sound and look like a very good systems I felt that NCE has the edge.

Thanks again for your responses and help.

Dave

[Anonymous]

Thanks to all that responded!

After reading all the replies, reading mfg data sheets and getting info overload migraines, I have decided to go with NCE.

The NCE Powerhouse Pro 5 Amp DCC System seems to fit my needs the best. I like the Pro Cab plain English display. This seemed to be the one thing that kept me intrested in the NCE system. Although digitrax and other systems sound and look like a very good systems I felt that NCE has the edge.

Thanks again for your responses and help.

Dave

[Anonymous]

I use Digitrax.Started with a Genesis II and upgraded to a Super Empire Builder.
I have had no problems with the system or decoders.I am also looking at the signal system that is due out from digitrax.I also like the soundtrax sound decoders better than MRC new dcc sound system(has to use 14 speed step instead of 128).
Upgrade potential should be looked at very close.Main question to ask is will my first investment be usable with an upgrade.

Jeff

[Anonymous]

I use Digitrax.Started with a Genesis II and upgraded to a Super Empire Builder.
I have had no problems with the system or decoders.I am also looking at the signal system that is due out from digitrax.I also like the soundtrax sound decoders better than MRC new dcc sound system(has to use 14 speed step instead of 128).
Upgrade potential should be looked at very close.Main question to ask is will my first investment be usable with an upgrade.

Jeff

[ronsmith]

EasyDCC lives up to its name as being easy to set up and use. I like using NCE
decoders best of all I have tried as far as performance.
Some dcc systems take a lot of work, which takes away the purpose of the hobby,
TO HAVE FUN.
The small size of the wireless throttle is a plus over others.
Happy railroading.
Ron

[ronsmith]

EasyDCC lives up to its name as being easy to set up and use. I like using NCE
decoders best of all I have tried as far as performance.
Some dcc systems take a lot of work, which takes away the purpose of the hobby,
TO HAVE FUN.
The small size of the wireless throttle is a plus over others.
Happy railroading.
Ron

[Anonymous]

I'm an EasyDCC user ... why did I choose it? I liked the simplicity of its use and the small handheld controllers ... however, if someone were to ask me which is best for him then I would say ... "go and see what your closet MR friends use ... talk to them ... then consider the advantages of having friends who can help you over the initial learning hump. Also, by having the same equipment you can bring your handheld controller along on operating nights".
Regards
John Parker
"Santa Fe, all the way ... Downunder"

[Anonymous]

I'm an EasyDCC user ... why did I choose it? I liked the simplicity of its use and the small handheld controllers ... however, if someone were to ask me which is best for him then I would say ... "go and see what your closet MR friends use ... talk to them ... then consider the advantages of having friends who can help you over the initial learning hump. Also, by having the same equipment you can bring your handheld controller along on operating nights".
Regards
John Parker
"Santa Fe, all the way ... Downunder"

[Anonymous]

I have Digitrax on my own layout which is 25 x 30. I went with Digitrax as most of the personnel that used a variety of systems seemed to think it had a slight edge. At the time I got it, the manuals were less than desireable and it took some coaching from a close friend. Today I think the manuals are better. I think Digitrax has the largest potential for growth with signaling, train identification within blocks, etc.
However, I have felt that it may be more than I need. I don't know what upgrade or possible sob story one will get on the existing radio throttles, when Digitrax releases the duplex radio (if ever). If I had it to do over again, I would strongly consider NCE. It appears to be enough for most modelers and appears easy to learn and use. My tip is to go to the sites and download their operation manuals for the system and the throttle operations and see which appears to be easiest for you to pick up on. That is generally what it is all about- having fun not frustration.
The worst thing about DCC is not the system, not installing the decoder, but trying to open a Genesis Engine to install the decoder. For what they cost, they should be easier to maintain.

[Anonymous]

I have Digitrax on my own layout which is 25 x 30. I went with Digitrax as most of the personnel that used a variety of systems seemed to think it had a slight edge. At the time I got it, the manuals were less than desireable and it took some coaching from a close friend. Today I think the manuals are better. I think Digitrax has the largest potential for growth with signaling, train identification within blocks, etc.
However, I have felt that it may be more than I need. I don't know what upgrade or possible sob story one will get on the existing radio throttles, when Digitrax releases the duplex radio (if ever). If I had it to do over again, I would strongly consider NCE. It appears to be enough for most modelers and appears easy to learn and use. My tip is to go to the sites and download their operation manuals for the system and the throttle operations and see which appears to be easiest for you to pick up on. That is generally what it is all about- having fun not frustration.
The worst thing about DCC is not the system, not installing the decoder, but trying to open a Genesis Engine to install the decoder. For what they cost, they should be easier to maintain.

[Anonymous]

i am using nce power systems and cabs,with digitrax decoders. the nce system seems to be just a little more bullet proof than the others. with the pro cab the instructions are clear and precise and it has a four digit address. this enables me to program my locos according to the cab number. i run 60 locos on the layout, however there are no more than 20 running at one time. incidently the digitrax decoders are just a little more accomodating for space. every millimeter counts. finally there are other systems out there that can work just as well if you understand the technical operation of them. lentz,digitrax and nce seem to be the front runners right now. good luck

[Anonymous]

i am using nce power systems and cabs,with digitrax decoders. the nce system seems to be just a little more bullet proof than the others. with the pro cab the instructions are clear and precise and it has a four digit address. this enables me to program my locos according to the cab number. i run 60 locos on the layout, however there are no more than 20 running at one time. incidently the digitrax decoders are just a little more accomodating for space. every millimeter counts. finally there are other systems out there that can work just as well if you understand the technical operation of them. lentz,digitrax and nce seem to be the front runners right now. good luck

[Anonymous]

I bought NCE on the recommendation of a very long in the tooth retailer. Since I'm a newcomer to computing &electronics, NCE's manual is a bit arcane for me. But it's true, they are very supportive by telephone,don't think of any question as Dumb (I've asked lottsa Dumb Qs).
Syncrochuff's commentary seems to cover NCE well.
Now this comes from a guy raised in a New England Unitarian family. Now I live on the northwest coast. The Unitarians out here are farther out than the 3000-plus miles from New england. It's not the twofer mechanism our Canadian collegue describes but there really are differences. All together, seriously, I see the variety among us as good. Most of all,it's pleasantly refreshing to talk easity, tongue in cheek on, if not about, religion.Where else than a wacko model train forum could one find this today? For a really serious turn, I hear murmurs that the Baptists' track is somehow shinier than the rest of ours; is that fair??

[Anonymous]

I bought NCE on the recommendation of a very long in the tooth retailer. Since I'm a newcomer to computing &electronics, NCE's manual is a bit arcane for me. But it's true, they are very supportive by telephone,don't think of any question as Dumb (I've asked lottsa Dumb Qs).
Syncrochuff's commentary seems to cover NCE well.
Now this comes from a guy raised in a New England Unitarian family. Now I live on the northwest coast. The Unitarians out here are farther out than the 3000-plus miles from New england. It's not the twofer mechanism our Canadian collegue describes but there really are differences. All together, seriously, I see the variety among us as good. Most of all,it's pleasantly refreshing to talk easity, tongue in cheek on, if not about, religion.Where else than a wacko model train forum could one find this today? For a really serious turn, I hear murmurs that the Baptists' track is somehow shinier than the rest of ours; is that fair??

[BRAKIE]

The best DCC system is the one that works for you..

This works for me..I use a Digi Trax Empire Builder-II with UT2 throttles..I prefer the simplicity of the UT2 and it does all I require a throttle to do...Program and use my Soundtrax system.What more do I need. Nothing in my opinion...

[BRAKIE]

The best DCC system is the one that works for you..

This works for me..I use a Digi Trax Empire Builder-II with UT2 throttles..I prefer the simplicity of the UT2 and it does all I require a throttle to do...Program and use my Soundtrax system.What more do I need. Nothing in my opinion...

[Anonymous]

well im still running the old ctc16e.....but my buddy is running railcomand, i do like the interface, but they are not interchangeable with other dcc.

[Anonymous]

well im still running the old ctc16e.....but my buddy is running railcomand, i do like the interface, but they are not interchangeable with other dcc.

[Anonymous]

I bought the Digitrax Empire Builder with radio throttles several years ago after kicking around slick sheets of the various manufacturers. There have been many improvements to the DCC systems over the years that I tend to take a quick look at, but I really have no reason to change now, 1) my system has expanded to a full basement system with boosters and many UP3s, 2) I understand the Digitrax system well enough to do most of the advanced programming on the go or on the programming track, 3) I'm a Baptist and can't see going back to a faith that proposes salvation by means other than the Lord, Jesus Christ.

[Anonymous]

I bought the Digitrax Empire Builder with radio throttles several years ago after kicking around slick sheets of the various manufacturers. There have been many improvements to the DCC systems over the years that I tend to take a quick look at, but I really have no reason to change now, 1) my system has expanded to a full basement system with boosters and many UP3s, 2) I understand the Digitrax system well enough to do most of the advanced programming on the go or on the programming track, 3) I'm a Baptist and can't see going back to a faith that proposes salvation by means other than the Lord, Jesus Christ.

[Kent]

QUOTE: Originally posted by synchrochuff


I also use Lenz with my modular group and it is also quite capable. The company is very supportive and the product works well and intuitively, but it uses more icon labelled buttons and does require a "cheat sheet" to remember the more complex capabilities (like MU'ing and programming). I suppose if I used it every day I'd remember that "F3" is used for MU'ing (along with "+" and "enter" and number keys

That's why I only set up MU's with my software, I can MU a loco and a few mouse clicks. Programing is just as easy.[:)][:p][;)] Shameless bragging over[:D]

[Kent]

QUOTE: Originally posted by synchrochuff


I also use Lenz with my modular group and it is also quite capable. The company is very supportive and the product works well and intuitively, but it uses more icon labelled buttons and does require a "cheat sheet" to remember the more complex capabilities (like MU'ing and programming). I suppose if I used it every day I'd remember that "F3" is used for MU'ing (along with "+" and "enter" and number keys

That's why I only set up MU's with my software, I can MU a loco and a few mouse clicks. Programing is just as easy.[:)][:p][;)] Shameless bragging over[:D]

[BR60103]

In among all the religious discussion, did anyone mention that all the chips for locos and accessories should work with any of the base systems?
There may be differences with the ones that allow 2 digit vs 4 digit addressing, but if you go from a simple to a more advanced system, that should work out.
You will not be operating 64 locos at the same time, but you can get quite a collection on the tracks.

[BR60103]

In among all the religious discussion, did anyone mention that all the chips for locos and accessories should work with any of the base systems?
There may be differences with the ones that allow 2 digit vs 4 digit addressing, but if you go from a simple to a more advanced system, that should work out.
You will not be operating 64 locos at the same time, but you can get quite a collection on the tracks.

[Anonymous]

I too have a small (5x11') layout and I have NCE and like it very much. I like the English labelled buttons for horn, light and bell (so I don't have to remember which function controls which), I also like the display that not only indicates that a command is received (not just sent) but also "walks" me through any sequences that I don't use very often, like programming and MU-ing. I am also using the radio which is two-way (also indicating receipt of commands). When I installed the radio, there was a problem -- which was fixed at no charge to me (other than postage to get it to NY) and I got it back in less than a week! Good support!! (and you can get the owner on the phone easily) Now I will admit that it isn't the least expensive, but it is comparable to other similarly capable systems and I don't worry about upgrading -- it's all in there - including a 9-pin serial jack for computer interfacing (and programs like Easy Ramp for easily setting engine decoders)
I also use Lenz with my modular group and it is also quite capable. The company is very supportive and the product works well and intuitively, but it uses more icon labelled buttons and does require a "cheat sheet" to remember the more complex capabilities (like MU'ing and programming). I suppose if I used it every day I'd remember that "F3" is used for MU'ing (along with "+" and "enter" and number keys -- I was just using the system last weekend, so right now I do remember)
I would suggest that if it's at all possible, try out the controller for the system(s) you're considering and pick the system based on the controller YOU like. Saving a few bucks now is not much of a deal if you're soon looking to "upgrade"