TMCC/DTS basic set-up questions

[dbaker48]

Norm,
As you know everyone has an opinion, and it is only an opinion of very little value. So here goes.
I have many trains from both the "post war era" and the MPC stuff. I had to put them away for about 15 years while I got on with other stuff. Recently got back into it in Dec 2005. As a result I have done the following;

1. Puchased a new Lionel train with TMCC capability, bought the TMCC system, a new ZW transformer. Very happy... New engine is wonderful, TMCC terific, and can run old engines in conventional mode as well. Primary difference convential old trains 1 per track, with remote control. New engines, multiple trains on same track.

2. Discovered MTH and the DCS system. Bought a MTH engine (Big Boy), and DCS system. Wow!! More features, better remote, AND the DCS can run the TMCC engines as well as DCS engines, multiple engines on the same track, at the same time!! Still using the ZW transformer.

3. Upgraded some of my post war Lionel to the TMCC compatible, cost about $150 per engine. Net result, remote capability great, however the overall quality of the engine in my opinion is infererior to what is available today. I think in the future I would rather put the money toward a new engine with the DCS or TMCC capability included. Because, I find the detail and quality of the rest of the engine so much better today.

Finally, I also think the value of MTH as compared to Lionel is greater. Lionel does have a better sounding sound, but the features of the DCS and MTH I think is much better. If I could I wish I would have purchased the MTH Z4000 transformer instead of the Lionel ZW, also.

I now have my MTH Big Boy running around the track with many features looking really great, playing the Orange Blossom Special through the tender, using my sons IPOD.

Have Fun

[yallaen]

I tried to do a search on the forum..but I could not make heads or tails of the information. So, please pardon my ignorance..but here goes:

I've decided to go the modern route vs getting an old ZW to power my trains. I like the ability to operate engines independently w/o blocks, etc. Hey, go figure, I'm a conductor..I make trains move for a living lol...[:D]

So, the ultimate question arises...TMCC or DTS? I'm thinking the Lionel version. So, what do I need to purchase to make my train(s) go? I'm looking at purchasing a new Lionel engine with sounds, etc. BUT, I also have my old Lionel stuff (post-war) that I want to use. I think I understand that you can convert the old stuff...but it's kinda complicated...

Anyway, if you can answer the above..I need to know the basics to buy..what I need to buy for converting the old engine, etc. Remember, this is just an "around the room" type setup..but you never know...lol...

I'll be using my TW transformer for accessories..or is that not a good idea?