Your Opinion On The ZW Transformer

[tex702]

I just bought a new Lionel ZW Transformer with the two 180 powerhouse Supply.  My question is which in you opinion is better, the older version of this transormer or the new one.  The ZW transformer of today when you pick it up and hold it in your hand might wiegh 1/2 pound if that much however the two powerhouse power supply is heavy as heck.  Im an old believer the more the merrier or the heavier the better.  Whats your opinion?   Thanks Greg

[Roger Bielen]

Calling the new ZW a transformer can be considered a misnomer.  The unit itself is a controller packed with electronics.  The 180W Powerhouses are the true transformers.  One nice thing is that with the controller being light it soesn't require a reinforced mounting area and the PH's can be set on the floor.  A con is the number of wires to contend with, especially if you have 4 PH's.  Another plus is that the new ZW can have up to 720 watts, 180/channel, of power while the old ZW had 275 watts input with less than 200 out.

[tex702]

Thanks Roger I appreciate your response.

[Ole Timer]

They're both GREAT power sources ! They've been around as long as dirt .... LOL .

[MartyE]

 Mine works fine...as long as I don't want to use the handles.  They are the worse implimented design ever.  They feel like junk and well... are. 

I do like the external supplies but wish there was a better way to hook them to the controller away from the track terminals.  I also like the compatibility with TMCC.  I really think this could be an excellent power source except for those crappy handles.

 

Did I mention the crappy handles?

[EIS2]

The biggest advantage of the modern ZW is that you can run conventional engines with the CAB-1 and command base.  All other transformers require extra equipment.

Earl