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I recommend DCC for small layouts. Switching between blocks isn't as much a chore on a large layout, but on small layout you may feel you are always switching cabs. Rather than planning blocks for cab control and the extra wiring and switches needed, you can wire the small layout as one block w/DCC and still run locos independently. Even if you are concentrating on scenery, you may wi***o run more than one loco at a time, and DCC makes that easy, especially on single-track lines. Cost is the usual reason people stay away from DCC. I've met modellers with over 100 locos, and the cost of fitting them all with decoders is prohibitive. If you're just getting started, though, you can budget for decoders. I recommend Litchfield Station, [url]http://www.litchfieldstation.com/[/url], as Bruce is extremely helpful for deocder recommendations and DCC advice. It's possible to get decoders for $12-15 dollars. Now's the time to buy DCC on a budget. I bought a MRC Command 2000 for $50 from a modeller who was upgrading his system. While not the best system, it is a cheap way to get into DCC, and works fine for a small layout. I sold it for $50 when I upgraded. The Atlas Commander, the MRC Prodigy, the Roco Lokmaus are all available used (and sometimes new!) at discount prices. If you wi***o buy new, many here recommend the Digitrax Zephyr for small layouts. MRC is bringing out a new Prodigy and Bachmann is releasing a simple DCC system, so you've got options. Finally, if you know anyone with DCC, ask if you can see it. You may decide you don't need it, but I was hooked. Gary
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