MTH DCS vs. Lionel TrainMaster DCC

[CB&Q]

I have been using tmcc&dcs so far tmcc is easier to use have had trouble with dcs not reading signals sent . I seem to be getting interference from something but what i haven't a clue? you can use tmcc to control ps-2 locos in conventinal mode you just can't acess the diff programs. you may want to hold off on these systems as train a studios is going to release a computer setup which will make hand held obsolete!!

[AlanRail]

For someone new to command I would recommend Lionel's TMCC because it is much easier to use and simpler than MTH's command system. MTH's system may or may not require special care in wiring the track whereas TMCC will not have such limitations.

Saying that; if you already have an MTH Proto-2 engine; I would get MTH's DCS, only because you want to take advantage of the features in the engine you have;

As has been said, you can always buy a TMCC unit and connect it to MTH's TIU box if and when you purchase a Lionel engine with Command Control.


Alan

[nblum]

I'll see your four and raise you four more Buckeye. My TMCC (minus one burned out early Powermaster) has been extremely reliable and simple for eight years[:)]. Just make sure you have an up to code, grounded outlet to plug the command base power supply into. That accounts for about 95% of the problems folks report with TMCC.

[Buckeye Riveter]

My TMCC has been extremely reliable for the last four years and is very easy to use.

[nblum]

If you have or plan to purchase primarily MTH Protosounds 2 locos, you'll want to get DCS instead of TMCC, for reasons of ease of operability, access to all PS2 functions and overall compatibility. As with all such equipment, you are better off having a knowledgeable local store or expert hobbiest in case you run into glitches. If you don't, I suggest you make sure you purchase your equipment from a mail order operation that is willing to provide advice and support by telephone or email (some good ones are Nassau Hobbies, Ready to Roll, Island Trains, etc.).

As pointed out, you can always later add a TMCC command base and a TMCC cab-1 (about $90-110 for the package at most discount hobby shops).

[Anonymous]

Tom summed it up nicely.

Both systems are extremely reliable. Of the two, DCS (MTH) is more advanced and, if you have a Lionel TMCC Command Base and the special MTH cable to connect it to the TIU, it can run TMCC locomtives in command mode (in addition to MTH PS-2's). You can also run conventional locomotives from the DCS handheld.

Like Tom, I have been running DCS for two years (have been doing demos for MTH for a year and a half) and find the system to be very robust and easy to operate.

[spankybird]

HI JB and Welcome to the CTT forum


I believe we can help you. By any chance do you live in the southern part of the state [?]

OK lets start off with a little of confusion. All these letter are so darn confusing.

DCC is a DC command system for most commonly used in HO trains.

DCS is MTH command system for AC O gauge. They also have one for DC in Gauge One and also HO, but lets not go there for now. I believe you want DCS for O gauge.

I have been running DCS for 2 years without any problems. It consist of:

1. a TIU = track interface unit and
2. a remote control

That’s it. If you wish in the future to want to run TMCC (Lionel) then you will have to add the Lionel Command Base to the TIU.

Here is a link that can answer some of your questions

http://www.protosound2.com/

If you need more help, just ask

Tom

PS. Check out our web page by clicking on the icon below.

[barclaysierra]

I'm in the same mess I was when buying a digital camera. Couldn't find anyone selling them who could explain and demo satisfactorily. Short version, I'm looking at DCC systems for my MTH system (now a Christmas train on the floor for grandkids, but soon to be a perm layout in garage for both of us).

Looks like MTH's product is better, does more and can run both MTH and Lionel. However, I've seen at least one web article that indicated some reliability problems, and the hobby shop that has them says they have had problems, won't even demo...want to push Lionel. I think I only need the remote controller and track interface unit, as my transformer that came with original set is 100 watts and I only want to run 2-3 trains max.

Lionel product looks like it can run MTH, but maybe not all functions, like scripted dialogues, voice recording, etc. However, I only have that on 2nd hand account from a guy I met in the hobby shop, who claimed he was doing it. Again, looks like I only need the basic unit and remote...maybe a Lionel transformer too?

Hobby shops have been little help, the "DCC Expert" only works a few days a week and hasn't shown up for work since I started asking. The rest of the crew seem only interested in selling the Lionel version.

I have a DCC ready MTH loco with Proto 2.0 sound. Great little engine with incredible sound. Looking for another.

I would be grateful to hear any experience or recommendations from anyone who has worked with both systems.

JB in Folsom, CA