O Scale Help/Advice - 2 or 3 Rail

[tsgtbob]

First let me say, as a 2 rail O scaler, I am biased! Atlas O makes scale "electro-couplers" for their 2 rail locomotives, and I think theyu ca be run off of a DCC controller. IMO, after a while, the 3 rail side of O gets a little tough to take. First is that annoying center rail. Second, there are three different (and for the most part incompatable) command control systems out there (TMCC {Lionel} DCS (Mike's Train House} and DCC {2 rail}) Again, after living with Keller's Onboard (a propatary command control) that pre-dated DCC, I am gunshy of one source suppliers of a command control system. For a good reference on the state of O scale today, pick up a copy of "A Guide To Modern O Scale" written by Brian Scace of O Scale Trains magizine.

[Anonymous]

Greetings All,   I am trying to decide between a 2 Rail, or a 3 Rail setup/layout (in O).  I want some switching operations (and the movement of freight cars to/from factories) to be the main scheme of my layout.  I was very impressed by the sound and features of some of the Lionel (3 rail) engines.  In particular, the capability to release (uncouple) the rolling stock from the engine anywhere on the track (by pressing a button on the transmitter).  I am wondering if this great feature (and the fantastic sounds and other features) are available in a 2 rail engine (and associated track) ?   I do want to do some scale detail work ...... and I think I would prefer a 2 rail setup (for some added scale realism).  Thanks.   Bob