Thanks JD. MRC is high on my list. Can you program on the main?
No hobby shops out here anymore. thats why I need the forums help.
Paul
My choice was the MRC Prodigy Advance 2. It is a full featured DCC system that is more user friendly and more reasonably priced than most other systems. It also easily upgrades to wireless. Plus the wireless cab does everything the wired cabs do including programming, and, you dont have to plug the cab in to switch which loco your controlling. This system is definatly worth a look. I even bought a Prodigy Express system for my work bench.
For decoders themselves MRC decoders are okay but my personal preference are Digitrax decoders. They just seemed a little more refined than the MRC (if that makes any sense). Thanks to the NMRA standards most of the manufacturers equipment are all compatible.
In the end though it comes down to personal preferences. All systems nowadays, MRC, Digitrax, NCE etc. are solid and reliable. I have even heard good things about the Bachman Dynamis system, but their decoders are very limited. Go down to your local hobby shop and talk to folks there, both staff and customers. They will be a wealth of knowledge, and a some may even allow you to try out their systems on their home or club layouts.
Hi Guys and Gals,
I need your help. I'm 50+ and have been a model railroader for most of those years. I am currently building a new layout after a ten year hiatus. Because of a divorce I have lost most of my old stuff. I have cars, track and a few DC locos. I don't have a power pack. So it is obvious that I should move straight into DCC. I have wired the new layout for DCC, several isolated electrical sections, main busses (14 guage), all rail has feeders, etc.
I've read all the comparisons in the mags, the manufacturers websites and reviews but sometimes the info seems conflicting. I can solder and drop recievers in my older Athearn and Atlas locos. But what is a good starter controller.
My wants are simple: Inexpensive, program on the main, expandable.
What are you using and would you start with that brand again if you were starting from zero today?
With the depth and breadth of this audience I'm sure you can help me. You've been there, right?
Yeah, I know there is no one answer to this.
Help.
Thanks in advance. Paul in Honolulu