Anyone try the new Bachmann DCC yet?

[Javern]

I see it is ony about $100, curious as to how it compares to MRC Prodigy. Its easy to assume the low price may indicate it's too simple and not have many features

[bcammack]

I do believe that it is made by Lenz. Strictly conjecture, though about features. I suspect that like Atlas, they have rebadged the Lenz entry-level system as their own. The upside of that would be compatibility with the Lenz accessories like the XPA wireless adapter and such.

[Anonymous]

I've not yet tried it, though I've heard a few "trade" reports about it from friends in the know. Apparently it can handle up to 8 locos, including one analogue, and it can accept a normal DC powerpack as an extra throttle unit. It is indeed made by Lenz and supposedly has the option of using it as a slave throttle unit if you later upgrade to their more advanced systems.

[Anonymous]

I have a bunch of locos with Decoders from Digitrax in them, Would it be able to run those locos? I have a small layout, so I don't really need a huge system.

[Anonymous]

Wholesale trains is offering the Bachmann DCC system for $53.29, or for about $78 with a decoder equipped loco. The loco's look like the inexpensive Bachmann standard line, but for the extra $25, I think it would make a great test piece. Still, it's hard to choose something when noone has tried it yet.

[Leon Silverman]

The advertisements seem to indicate that this unit will handle no more than 10 separate locomotives or possibly consists. This could be a severe limitation to anyone with a decent sized collection.

[Anonymous]

For $54 what does one expect ? You want features , spend the money. Everyone on a limited budget will be happy -- ? Hopefully[%-)]

[Anonymous]

QUOTE: Originally posted by Leon Silverman

The advertisements seem to indicate that this unit will handle no more than 10 separate locomotives or possibly consists. This could be a severe limitation to anyone with a decent sized collection.

Yea, but is that at one time or total addresses? The Digitrax Zephyr system is also limited to 10 active locos, but can handle any number you have addresses for. That's proably more than enough for 1 or 2 operators at a time; if you need more operators at the same time, you probably won't be looking at entry-level DCC systems anyway. The new Bachmann system is probably the same.

Besides, I can't imagine trying to run 10 locos at the same time all by myself -- I'd be spending more time throwing switches to make sure they don't collide than actually enjoying running them. [:)]

[Leon Silverman]

I agree that trying to run ten locomotives at once would be impossible, but the advantage of DCC is to be able to mix and match locomotives with different operating characteristics. You might want to "operate" only one or two locomotives at a time, but the ten locomotive limit means that you can have no more than ten locomotives "parked" (idle, but with the headlight(s) on) on the layout at a time.
Remember, a DCC layout is powered at 12 volts all the time. Any additional locomotive on the layout beyond the ten unit limit will have to be dummys unless you want the locomotives to run solo at full speed on a circle of track. Then you will not have to worry about throwing switches.

[Anonymous]

Well, I don't know, but I think for the average home layout, 3 or 4 engines in operation and 6 idling somewhere are still a lot.[:)] And the rest can be sitting in storage yards with the power off.

Besides, I just checked with my Zephyr system, and even if you dispatch a loco to release it from the throttle, the lights stay on in the last mode chosen as long as it's sitting on a powered track (at least with an Atlas Master engine and an older engine with a Digitrax decoder). So the 10 loco limit doesn't seem to prevent you from having idling engines with their headlights on and not in the throttles queue.

[Anonymous]

QUOTE: Originally posted by Leon Silverman

I agree that trying to run ten locomotives at once would be impossible

of course you can when you using DCC, you need a interface (like the LI100 from Lenz), a Computer and a proper software program, (like Railroad &Co or Layout Commander ect.).
Divide your layout in blocks with occupancy detectors and you’re ready to run..... Or even only watch since the computer can handle all trains if you want it to do so.

Well ten trains you’re probable need an extra power station to though.......... and a lay-out big enough to create blocks for ten trains. [:D]

But it is possible now a day to operate a large lay-out by yourself.

Krgds
Cor

[ClinchValleySD40]

The latest NMRA mag had a review of the system. They rate it very high and easy to use for a smaller layout.

[DSchmitt]

QUOTE: Originally posted by finnius72

I have a bunch of locos with Decoders from Digitrax in them, Would it be able to run those locos? I have a small layout, so I don't really need a huge system.

It conforms to NMRA Standards (per the review in Scale Rails, The NMRA publication) there should be no problem.

[Anonymous]

Does anyone have it available for purchase yet? Wholesale trains still has it listed as pre-order.

[sundayniagara]

Sounds to me like it just got easier to get into DCC. And that ain't bad.
Mark

[Anonymous]

My LHS had two of them for sale as of last Thursday.

[rrinker]

My only concern with these 'simple' inexpensive systems is, what about the future? If you currently have a small layout that fits withint he parameters of such a simple system, and plan to never expand beyond that, great, it should work fine. But if you need to expand, and the system can't, it's that much money down the drain (sure you can probably resell it...).
For this reason, I went with a Digitrax Zephyr. Right now I am building an 8x12 Ho layout that will accomodate 2, maybe 3 operators tops, so the Zephyr has plenty of power. However, eventually I will fill up my 25x50 L shaped basement space with a layout that I am planning on handling 4-5 operators, at least. I will need a larger system. Well, I can keep adding equipment to what I have and never throw away or resell the original Zephyr system. When I need ore amps but no more locos, I can add a booster. When I need more than 10 locos as well, I can added the DCS100 command station and the Zephry becomes a throttle in my system. The 2.5 amps of the Zephyr will be plenty of power to run a whole lot of Tortoise switch motors and so will become a dedicated power source for stationary decoders once my layout reaches that point.

[Anonymous]

It's only $53!! I would bet most of you have ruined at least that much in rolling stock experimenting with paint and weathering. The good thing, if this system operates well, is everyone can afford it. A big difference between $53 and $350.

[Anonymous]

I think the next step-up is more like $150 to $175 for the Zephyr and the new MRC advanced system. These will be 3x better as far as functionality and use go.

[Anonymous]

Enduringexp. I agree with you. The Bachmann DCC seems to be an good way to experiement somewhat long term with DCC - then decide if DC was better. Of course if I had a 20 by 40 foot layout with a couple of dozen engines running, then I'd probably go another route. The good thing is that it is DCC. So if you decide to trade up, the decoders you had already installed would stil be usuable. Trade up or return to DC, I'm sure you could sell the thing for at least $20.00 on ebay or a swap meet. Makes for a pretty inexpensive way to experiement with new technology. Heck taking the family to a movie on a Saturday night costs more!

How much rolling stock have I messed up? Not counting those that I accidently sat on, dropped etc. just a tad more than $53.00. I WISH! lol

[Anonymous]

rororo,
I understand that the more pricey systems CAN do more, but not everyone needs to do more. It's kind of like the current trend that everyone wants a pick-up truck. They never haul anything in it, but it's cool to own. Something that does 3 X more is only good if you have the other items that can benefit. If all I have are 5 non-sound locos and all manually operated turnouts, even on a huge layout, why would I want something else. i am not trying to be argumentative, but I just don't understand this "more is better" mindset when the "more" part can't be utilized.

[Anonymous]

Enduringexp

I think you've just described the entire economy in your post. I love watching folks slow down before driving their Hummer through a little puddle lol (of course these are the same folks that complain how much the gas for the things cost).

There are some that will say that you aren't a "real model railroader" unless you have a football field size layout with a couple hundred of locomotives (all Kato) and a DCC system that can handle 3000 locomototives and 876 functions (just in case that many more functions become available in the next decade or two).

BTW: How many hummers do you think have actually gone off roading, towed something or taxed to within 10 percent of their capabilities?

[bcammack]

QUOTE: Originally posted by rororo

I think the next step-up is more like $150 to $175 for the Zephyr and the new MRC advanced system. These will be 3x better as far as functionality and use go.

You bet! I sure do want to spend three, three-and-a-half times as much money to find out if I even like DCC on my little 2'x4' switching layout!

[Anonymous]

Spend whatever you want to spend. You guys are acting as if "you get what you pay for " was a new concept. Why would you recommend to someone who wants to advance in the hobby , the bottom of the barrell , in an area that has to excell ? If it suits your needs, fine. Why recommend a system with an 1 amp power supply ,and one that can't take advatage of BLI's and others sound system. If you can buy the lowest priced one , and it does what you need it to ; more power to you. Just don't try to convince people who are thinking of moving into dcc, that Bachmann's $53 dcc system would be a wise investment. If that's all you can spend, then that's what you can get. A $53 system .It's not about "being a real MR" , it's about getting what you pay for. Just like a $7 or $8 blue box or other kits ; when all is said and done , you spent $4 more , on metal wheels and couplers ,and shims . to get it to run right. Then add time and gas. Imagine -$2 or $3 more in the beginning ,and you you have an Atlas rtr car. Detailed to the max to boot ! Sooner or later you pay for quality. Quantity is easy. It's quality that always comes back to bite you eventually ! I don't expect much when I spend on the cheap. Like everyone else , I expect more and better ,when I spend accordingly.

[Anonymous]

I am sorry, but that whole "you get what you pay for" line that was started by MANUFACTURERS years ago to trick you into spending more has been played to death. Sure, you get better stuff (features, not necessarily quality) when you spend more money, but it's the features we are questioning here. Like you said, a BLI loco may need a bigger set, but I for one will NEVER own a BLI loco. Just remember, the same steel, engine, and labor builds the Cadillac that builds the Cavalier. The Cadillac, therefore, is no better in quality, just more toots and whistles, and a much higher price tag to boot. So, you really aren't getting what you pay for when you buy the Cadillac. The disparity between the prices is too great. As far as $7-8 blue box kits, I feel bad for you if you got taken by spending that much. Most of mine were $4, but some have been less than $3. Mine all turned out to cost less than $5.50 with kadee's and P2K metal wheels. The best price I have seen on an Atlas car (so far, and I do look) is about $15, but some older models are showing up on E-Bay for around $12. I have set a limit of $10 per car for me. This is, after all, just a hobby. Most of us have other responsibilities, like mortgages and car payments. I know some people may spend on the hobby and let other things go, but the responsible ones won't. Additionally, we have other interests as welI, like boating, snowmobiling, dirt bikes, etc, all of which cost money. If you keep insisting that people need to spend a fortune and buy the top of the line all the time, all that will be left is overpriced merchandise and wealthy layout owners. Nobody new will join the hobby, and eventually it will turn out like the classic car craze-everyone wants one, but few can afford one. If you want to spend more, that is your choice, but don't try to belittle someone else's choice to stay within a budget and justify it with "you get what you pay for". You are trying to convince people (just like most on here) that your system is the best and that's what everyone should have. I have seen it on these forums with DCC, Locos, freight cars, structures-everyone has an opinion on what's the best, and it is usually what they have. This should be an impartial way to educate the MR masses, giving advice that truly helps. If "you get what you pay for" were true, we would all be driving a Lexus, now wouldn't we? What do you drive?????

[bcammack]

I guess my opinion, as an "average consumer" doesn't mean much.

Pricing a DCC control system at nearly the same price as a decent DC power pack, but offering all the basic features of DCC smacks of genius to me. Let's get lots of people involved in DCC! Let's expand the market and drive prices down!

Believe me, there are lots of people who want more than plain DC has to offer, like no more cab control/wiring nightmare for controlling multiple locomotives (if no more than to leave one idling on a siding while driving the other), and eight extra functions they never had before, but don't have $150+ to take a flyer on an "expandable, more fully featured" system. I'm one of 'em.

[Anonymous]

bcammack,
Your opinion means as much as anyone else's. I am always interested in hearing from anyone that wishes to make an intelligent statement. Just because 2 (or 2000) of us don't agree doesn't make anyone right or wrong, but someone may bring up that 1 point that may change someone's mind about something. As far as being an "average consumer", you are exactly the type of person that should be speaking up about what you want and don't want. We all don't have the advantage of unlimited funds for our playthings like Chicago's Museum of Industry train layout. We can't afford the governmental $500 hammer, so we have to turn to other resources. I make good money, drive a $45000.00 pickup, and live in a $250,000.00 house, but I sure don't want to spend anymore than is necessary on what I want or need. I am always searching for a bargain, and so far, this entry level DCC may be one of them.

[Anonymous]

Nobody is arguing about getting a good bargain. Your steel to steel argument is useless. It's the parts underneath. Cheaper motor,cheaper electronics ,cheaper bearings, etc. etc. Everything is of a lower grade. Like it or not,these are simple truths. I pose you guys a question -- if the bachmann dcc system is being sold at $53 street., that would mean bachmann is letting them go at around $30 to dealers. Of that $30 there are costs for packaging ,transportation , and profit for bachmann. Your left with a system that is worth less than $20 in parts and labor. Assuming bachmann uses the cheapest of the slavelike labor countries, How much for electronics was actually used here ? If you feel comfortble recommending a power supply on the level of what comes with dc train sets that can overheat quicker than you know what, then argue away. A bargain is a bargain . There are places and things to get with a bargain. Why don't you tell your wife's and kids you just bought the cheapest tires they had on sale @ $99 for 4, and put them on her car. Think she might get concerned ? Maybe some nice cheap appliance ,with cheap electronics ,you could plug in your wall and hope it doesn't catch fire , will get your attention. Sure , the manufacturers must have started the "get what you pay for". Or you think it might have been the consumer ? Try developing something , bring it to market and have a quality product to boot. Then deal with warranty claims, lawsuits,etc. I stand by my statements. If everyone is selling @ $150, it must be a conspiracy. Or bachmann is a GENIUS- -not--. [(-D] Your entitled to purchase whatever you wish. It has always come down to - Buyer beware. I know they (bachmann) make some good products. I just wouldn't bet the house ,or any loco's on this one.

[bcammack]

I'm looking forward to revisiting this after the product has been on the market for a while.

Your argument seems to be that the thing has no merit because it's not expandible, doesn't support every function in the DCC specs, and only will drive a couple locomotives.

My point is, for $60.00 I don't care. It does the basics and it's worth the money for what it does to me. I don't have a fortune to spend on model railroading or DCC. I have six locomotives, of which I paid $30 for the most expensive. I have a 2"x4" layout, not an empire.

You're mistaken about the cars analogy, however, there's no difference in the quality of the bearings, engines, etc., just mostly how much "content" there is. Number of cylinders, number of cams, quantity of technology, etc. Interior components and trim, yes, you get vinyl instead of leather and vacuum-plating instead of polished stainless steel or chrome.

[Anonymous]

bcammack -- "Your argument seems to be that the thing has no merit " -- that is not my argument. Don't turn my arguments around. My point was you get what you pay for , and buyer beware. You also stated -
"You're mistaken about the cars analogy, however, there's no difference in the quality of the bearings, engines, etc., just mostly how much "content" there is. Number of cylinders, number of cams, quantity of technology, etc. Interior components and trim, yes, you get vinyl instead of leather and vacuum-plating instead of polished stainless steel or chrome." If you really think this is true , then tell that to a mechanic ,and see what he has to tell you ! His original argument was it's the same steel , labor etc. Don't turn things around to suit your needs. How much do you want to bet , it's not the same electronics, labor , etc that builds the bachmann,vs the other dcc makers.Like I said , if it suits your budget and needs, go for it ! Buy it . Spend the $53 and report back. But it looks like your waiting for others to do it for you.