After following this forum for quite a while, I noticed that MOST the people on this forum use Digitraxx, Lenz, NCE or some other system. I noticed that the Prodigy Sq. system doesnt make it into the top three systems in alot of these "whats the best system" or "what system do you use" or " what system would you buy" threads. Ive also noticed that some people are downright anti Prodigy or should I say anti MRC. Well, I LOVE my MRC Prodigy Squared system! Its easy to use, reliable and FUN.So happy Prodigy Squared owners Sound off, I would like to hear from you.
I'm sure that you have heard the reasons some are so anti-MRC so I won't repeat them here. I've used the PA2 and Wireless and they are terrific systems. From a performance and user's perspective I would rate them second behind Digitrax for my personal needs. But, the inability to use JMRI with them was the deal breaker for me. But that's just me and there are many who don't feel this is a big deal. Good luck with your system and if you ever use their interface let us know how you like it.
Jerry
Rio Grande vs. Santa Fe.....the battle is over but the glory remains!
Just got my MRN and there's a review of the MRC computer interface and software. At the end the reviewer compared it with JMRI and said that for MRC sound decoders, JMRI was severely lacking. Odd, as I seriously doubt the available MRC decoder definitions for DecoderPro are lacking any published CV settings. Oh wait, 'published'. I wonder what settings there are in MRC decoders that MRC doesn't tell anyone about......
Based on the screen shot in the article, it is better than that horrendous thing they offered as a 'sneak preview' they offered for free download a while back. But the fact still remains that it's proprietary whereas the rest of the DCC world uses JMRI or RR&Company.
--Randy
Modeling the Reading Railroad in the 1950's
Visit my web site at www.readingeastpenn.com for construction updates, DCC Info, and more.
Well I don't think many of us will be using MRC decoders but what I wonder is how their computer interface works with non-MRC decoders? Does it offer any advantages over just programming from the system throttle? Maybe there's a file save function that might be helpful.
Because of my total ignorance of MRC's past and ongoing transgressions at the time of my DCC system purchase, I was unable to figure that into the equation. Reading about all the bad things MRC has done doesnt make me as happy with my purchase, but dang the Prodigy Squared system is really great and fits my needs very well. Computer interfaces are not important to me, but I still dont like what MRC did. Someone in another post mentioned that another bad thing about MRC systems that they are made in China. Its terrible, but in this world today, I assumed that all the systems were made overseas, so it didnt enter into my decision.
I use Prodigy Express, had it about a year now. It does everything I need it to do and plenty of things I may never need. Sure a computer interface is nice IF you have an extra computer hanging around. I have a pencil and notebook.
I've used many MRC products over the years ranging from power packs to RC trucks and most all have been quite satisfactory. The only downers I've had were an MRC sounder that had no volume control and only lasted about 2 months, but that was expected and used as an experiment to figure out if I wanted sound in my loco's (I DO) so for $30 I wasn't bummed when it croaked.
The only thing I dislike about the PE is when there's a short it crashes the system and it won't recover without unplugging the cab or shutting it down. But I also run 120' double track main and 6 track yard without any circuit breakers (currently anyways) so how much is the fault of the PE?
Will I continue to buy MRC? Sure but I would also be a little picky about what I buy, and truthfully what company always makes winners?
Modeling the Cleveland and Pittsburgh during the PennCentral era starting on the Cleveland lakefront and ending in Mingo junction
Santa Fe all the way! Someone in another post mentioned that another bad thing about MRC systems that they are made in China. Its terrible, but in this world today, I assumed that all the systems were made overseas, so it didnt enter into my decision.
Someone in another post mentioned that another bad thing about MRC systems that they are made in China. Its terrible, but in this world today, I assumed that all the systems were made overseas, so it didnt enter into my decision.
Sorry, but not all are made overseas.
Digitrax is made in the USASoundTraxx is made in the USAQSI is made in the USANCE is made in the USAEasyDCC is made in the USATCS is made in the USALenz is made in GermanyRoco is made in Austria
Of all the leading brands, only MRC is made in China.
I don't recall anyone on these forums ever saying that they had an issue with an MRC Prodigy, Prodigy Advance, or Prodigy Advance2. MRC decoders are the source of all the complaints.
Something else to take into consideration is customer service and support. With Digitrax, NCE, EasyDCC and the others that are made in the USA, repair service is available from the manufacturers. What do you do with an MRC Prodigy if it breaks? Just throw it away and buy another one, or can it be repaired in the US? And what would be the turn-around time to get it back? That may not be a consideration for a small home layout, but for a large club that can't be dead in the water for an extended period of time because of a system failure, repair service is definitely something that needs to be taken into account.
Tim, all I can say is that everyone must be reading your side-bar avatar and have decided to fulfill your state motto and "show you".
To be fair to Tim, he freely acknowledged that he did not know much about the back story here and chose the MRC product based on the merits of the system. I think we can safely assume that he now has a fairly good idea for the reasons behind any anti MRC sentiment.
So since this thread was meant to be a place for happy MRC users to congregate, how about we give the MRC debate a rest and give users a chance to chime in without feeling like they are going to be jumped on for making the choice in the first place.
Simon Modelling CB&Q and Wabash See my slowly evolving layout on my picturetrail site http://www.picturetrail.com/simontrains and our videos at http://www.youtube.com/user/MrCrispybake?feature=mhum
Attending an MRC users club to me would be like attending an Edsel users club at a junkyard. Their decoders are junk and they are arrogant enough to advertise how great they are above the competition. If they knowingly lie about that then IMO they can't be trusted with anything, including their prodigy.
Springfield PA
This forum is for all electronics and DCC questions so you are bound to read something that doesn't quite agree with your opinion. There is the MRC DCC Yahoo group. That's about as close to a Users Club as there is. There's a Yahoo group for every system on the market.
Of course the most reliable advice on each group comes from a few that are members on all of the groups. In fact at least one of the MRC group moderators is an NCE guru. Some have already posted to this thread.
I will sound off. To ansewer your post I to love my Prodigy Advance 2. I also have the wireless conversion which performs flawlessly. The sysem fit's my need's perfectly. I know some that have dumped Digitraxx and switched to Prodigy Advanced after seeing how user freindly it was because they were so frustrated with trying to use there Digitraxx. I believe some people love to bash a product just to bash even when bashing is not the issue. As for as as computer interface, I do not need it are am I interested in useing it. As for as being made in China most of all the engines everyone is running, and so are alot of other products, are made there so what's the point? Please do not take this as me being anti AMERICAN because I am not.
As for as customer service goes. I have dealt with them. An issue with my command station which was totally my fault. I called customer service, they instructed me on how and were to send it. It was returned repaired in two week's so I do not beleive they sent it to China to be repaired.
The end
ruderunner Sure a computer interface is nice IF you have an extra computer hanging around.
Sure a computer interface is nice IF you have an extra computer hanging around.
You don't really need an EXTRA computer, at least not for programming decoders. You could always pick up a SPROG or a Digitrax PR3, either of which can act as a stand-alone programming device, and use JMRI to program/back up your decoders wherever your main computer is located.
And to go really basic, you don't even need the SPROG or PR3. JMRI has a "simulator" mode that doesn't require an interface connection at all. Just select the decoder/options you want, and use your PE to program the CV values JMRI calculates.
I have both the MRC Prod. Adv. Sq.2 and the MRC computer interface. They work just fine for me. I have never used or seen a JMRI system in action. So I can not compare it to the MRC system, but I can tell you with the MRC interface it gives you two extra throtles on screen you can run trains with both throtles and your hand held witch works great for me because I run N scale on one throtle and HO scale on the other. You can also save Loco files with all your CV settings. There are some filing issuses that MRC is working on. Programing in OPS mode or program track is a breeze, speed curve has a graph you set to your desired preference and just click program and its done. And as far as the DCC system goes I could not belive the amount of steps the LHS owner had to go through on his Digitrax system just to address a four digit loco, on the MRC it is half the work. And as far as decoders go. I started my train hobby back in 2003 so I do not know much about the older MRC decoders but since I have been in this hobby I have had more Digitrax decoders fry than any other. So I guess what all this would boil down to is PREFERENCE.
Thanks, TRUCK.
Simon1966, you hit the nail on the head and thank you. You understand the "spirit" of the thread.
Hamltnblue, your analogy is kinda...well....screwy. You condemn an entire company, MRC, because of one product line,decoders, so then you condemn Edsel, therefore following your logic Ford must be total crap because they put out an unpopular model? The Prodigy Squared is an Edsel? in a junkyard?
Edsels failed because of poor marketing not because they were bad cars so the comparison doesn't fit.
The title of the thread implies that one actually own and use a Prodigy system so if you just want to regurgitate things you've read without first hand experience then join any of the other MRC bash threads. If you have and use a Prodigy and have a problem then come forth.
SantaFe, I think a big reason you don't see much reccomendation of the MRC systems is that our flame suits have burned through...
ruderunner I use Prodigy Express, had it about a year now. It does everything I need it to do and plenty of things I may never need. Sure a computer interface is nice...
I use Prodigy Express, had it about a year now. It does everything I need it to do and plenty of things I may never need. Sure a computer interface is nice...
The Express does not have an elegant way to run locos back to back in an Advance consist and will not support Universal consisting. If one wants to run a consist back to back he has to thinker with CV29, an awkward work around as far as I am concerned and enough to be a deal breaker for me.
The lack of Universal Consist support means you can't consist MTH locos.
I don't remember for sure but I also think the Express can't read CV.
Of course the Prodigy Advance does not have these limitations.
Jack W.
Truck I have both the MRC Prod. ADV.... And as far as the DCC system goes I could not belive the amount of steps the LHS owner had to go through on his Digitrax system just to address a four digit loco, on the MRC it is half the work... Thanks,TRUCK.
I have both the MRC Prod. ADV....
And as far as the DCC system goes I could not belive the amount of steps the LHS owner had to go through on his Digitrax system just to address a four digit loco, on the MRC it is half the work...
Thanks,TRUCK.
I slight "mise au point" here I am a regular user of Digitrax and NCE system and did use the Prodigy Adv on four occasions, the last time about a month ago when I teach an Hobby Shop owner how to use his Prodigy system (Programming address, Acquiring locos and Running them).
I can assure you acquiring a 4 digits address on all 3 system is exactly the same keystroke for keystroke. I don't think your comment is up to date.
I've had my PA for over 5 years and it fits my needs very well. It's not the squared version, though.
I won't spend much time on their decoders, other than to say they are missing an enourmous opportunity by not marketing a decoder that is on par with their control system, and are obviously damaging their reputation in the process.
What I like about the PA is the easy to use throttle with the phone style (123-456-789) numeric buttons, and +/- buttons with a different tactile feel, although I mainly use the wheel for speed control. I like that there are indicators for active functions and that the display is large and clear.
I like the easy programming of crucial and common CV values with descriptions such as "address, SV, TV, ACC, DEC", etc. I like the recall feature for retaining loco numbers. I like that the display flashes when you select a loco that is in another throttle's recal stack, (but that you are NOT required to "dispatch" that loco from the other throttle).
I like that you can make extension jacks from easily available and relatively cheap Cat5 network cable and accesories.
I also like the built in fast clock, although I wish it could be set to 3:1. Currently 4:1 is the slowest setting.
I am not crazy about the fact that the detents in the wheel do not directly corespond with an increase in speed setting. I am slightly irritated that sometimes previously selected locos are not in the recal stack after a power cycle, and that sometimes a non-selected loco has a speed setting after a power cycle.
Wireless is not a major importance to me but I may add one or more at a later date.
A generic computer interface is not important to me, as I have standardized on LokSound and QSI decoders, and use their programmers for setting values specific to those decoders, such as function remapping and sound slot assignments. This also give me the ability to store "templates" for configuring decoders.
Consisting is not an issue, as I simply set all the loco addresses to that of the lead unit. This takes about 30 seconds. * most of my "consists" are cab units and nearly always run together. When doubleheading steam, I prefer to control each loco independantly, via the recal stack, as I feel this more accurately represents prototype operation.
Amperage has not been a factor. I usually run two or three locos at a time, but have about 12 to 20 sitting on the powered track. 90% of my active locos are sound equipped.
All in all this system has met nearly all of my requiremtns in a cost effective way.
I have spent about $290 for two complete systems and one additional throttle, plus another $25 for three addtional double extension jacks on about 15' runs. this gives me three throttles and an extra base station in case of emergency.
Ruderunner I think the bigest reason for the system not getting recomended by it's satisfied user's is the fact that I for one just get tired of hearing everyone bash MRC any time it get's mentioned. I am not even going to bash there decoder's since I have 2 that have never casued me a problem, along with 3 sound trax lc's. Just making a point not starting a war.
jalajoieThe Express does not have an elegant way to run locos back to back in an Advance consist and will not support Universal consisting. If one wants to run a consist back to back he has to thinker with CV29, an awkward work around as far as I am concerned and enough to be a deal breaker for me.
CSX RobertIt is true that you can not set locos to run back-to-back in an advanced consist with the Express using the consist function to build the consist,; however, you do not have to program CV29 to do it. That is what MRC suggests doing in their "Prodigy Tips and Tricks" document, but it makes more sense to just skip the consist function of the throttle and program CV19 manually, adding 128 to the consist address if you want the engine reversed.
Of course you are right, this is the method I use when I want to built permanent and mobile consist independent of any command station. I don't think everyone is familiar or at ease with CV19 programming.
There are other ways that is JMRI or MRC own computer interface to built Advance consist, but so far most intervenants said a computer interface was not a needed tool.
I have the Prodigy Express system with an extra Prodigy Advanced handheld. I think it is a great system for the cost. I bought the Advanced handheld to throw my DCC equiped turnouts and to read CV's. Haven't had any problems with the system in 3 years of use. MRC has a good group on yahoo that has alot of useful information.
Mike Kingsbury
Two additional thoughts. First, I just programmed a F unit to run backwards by programming 29 with 39. Pushed a couple of buttons and there you go, very simple. Second, I started this thread because of all the MRC bashing, I thought it would be a nice place for Prodigy users to converse without being bashed.
Santa Fe all the way! Two additional thoughts. First, I just programmed a F unit to run backwards by programming 29 with 39. Pushed a couple of buttons and there you go, very simple. Second, I started this thread because of all the MRC bashing, I thought it would be a nice place for Prodigy users to converse without being bashed.
If you have not done it yet, I suggest you join the MRC Yahoo Group, you will find lots of friendly and knowledgeable guys there.
Changing the value of a single CV is the same easy procedure with all 3 systems I used, that is Digitrax, MRC and NCE.
When I was in the transition of replacing the old layout that was damaged when the furnace blow back left about an inch of oily soot all over the layout I picked up a Prodigy Advance Squared unit form a LHS going out of business for a steal. It seemed to be all I need/wanted but t like anything else if you've never had anything to compare it to how would you know what you had or had not. The first time I operated and NCE system and had someone who was very knowledgeable more so then the average train guy I saw instantly the short comings of the unit.
Yes there is no question what others like David B. have said the company consists of arrogant, liars and self promoting idiots at best. Some times for me if the company's customer service exceed their products short comings I will take that into account and may consider doing business with them, this is not the case with MRC. I have come so close to wanting to reach through the phone and choke the little arrogant SOB in their repair department that I had to think better of it being as I am only about a 30 to 40 minute adrenalin filled ride form them. Said customer service jerk quickly changed his tone when I informed him of such and said I had a credit card reserved solely for the purpose of bail money when dealing with idiots like himself.
One can not even substantiate the argument that it's a good entry level system a cheap way to get into dcc when you can purchase NCE's starter set up for around $150
I have found the only viable sue for my MRC Prodigy advance squared is using it on my test track. I was using it to program locomotives but I will be doing that via my computer so it no resides in it's final resting place.
Allegheny2-6-6-6 When I was in the transition of replacing the old layout that was damaged when the furnace blow back left about an inch of oily soot all over the layout I picked up a Prodigy Advance Squared unit form a LHS going out of business for a steal. It seemed to be all I need/wanted but t like anything else if you've never had anything to compare it to how would you know what you had or had not. The first time I operated and NCE system and had someone who was very knowledgeable more so then the average train guy I saw instantly the short comings of the unit. Yes there is no question what others like David B. have said the company consists of arrogant, liars and self promoting idiots at best. Some times for me if the company's customer service exceed their products short comings I will take that into account and may consider doing business with them, this is not the case with MRC. I have come so close to wanting to reach through the phone and choke the little arrogant SOB in their repair department that I had to think better of it being as I am only about a 30 to 40 minute adrenalin filled ride form them. Said customer service jerk quickly changed his tone when I informed him of such and said I had a credit card reserved solely for the purpose of bail money when dealing with idiots like himself. One can not even substantiate the argument that it's a good entry level system a cheap way to get into dcc when you can purchase NCE's starter set up for around $150 I have found the only viable sue for my MRC Prodigy advance squared is using it on my test track. I was using it to program locomotives but I will be doing that via my computer so it no resides in it's final resting place.
Welcome to the Prodigy Squared Users Club thread Allegheny 2-6-6-6! Your getting slow in your old age, it took you a couple of days before you came to, basically call our DCC system useless, with no viable use, not even on a test track. Man, you must be a blast at a club layout, " hey, you know you painted that loco with the wrong shade of black" I've been watching this forum for over a year now and I'd like to have a dollar for every time Mr Negative ( YOU) craps on someones thread. Theres my two cents worth.
Santa Fe all the way! Welcome to the Prodigy Squared Users Club thread Allegheny 2-6-6-6! Your getting slow in your old age, it took you a couple of days before you came to, basically call our DCC system useless, with no viable use, not even on a test track. Man, you must be a blast at a club layout, " hey, you know you painted that loco with the wrong shade of black" I've been watching this forum for over a year now and I'd like to have a dollar for every time Mr Negative ( YOU) craps on someones thread. Theres my two cents worth.
While I agree "Allegheny 2-6-6-6" came out rather hard on your beloved system, your personal attack has no place in this list. Please reread "mfm37" reply of May 24 2010 to your thread and act accordingly.
I urge you to join the Yahoo MRC group, there only Digitrax and NCE bashing is acceptable.
1. Reread his post, and keep in mind he posted that on a thread that on a Prodigy Squared Users Club thread. Kinda like going to the old wooden boat club site and saying that wooden boat are worthless.
2. Since I am usually a very positive poster and I dont normally like to offend or upset people, I will stop posting on this thread and not bring up MRC again on this site.
3. I apologize for losing my temper, it won't happen again.
I for one actually hope represetatives of MRC do read these forums, and see what their business practices are doing to their word of mouth reputation.
I also hope they see that they still have time to do something about it, but that from the way it sounds, they may be headed down a mighty unfriendly path, if they don't.
I see several possible fixes, and two are free of cost or nearly so.
1 Tone down the boasting. It's alright to claim to be the best, but don't throw rocks from a glass house, and don't ooh and ah, over a new MRC feature that the competition already has. (Imagine the wonder of having the incredible ability to control trains.......FROM A HAND HELD KNOB!!! MRC brings it to you!)
2 Release your code for the PC interface. I might actually be interested in JMRI for things other than decoder programming if it worked with my DCC system.
3 Make a better quality, more logical decoder. Volume settings of only 9, 10 or 11 (out of 10) that have to be set for each sound is ridiculous.
I'm a satisfied PA user, and some of this stuff makes me wince.
The basic issue is with MRC's decoders and not the prodigy system. There aren't many people I've seen that have used MRC decoders and haven't had one or more just stop working. The quality is poor. That tends to bleed over to their other products. After working with their decoders and visiting their site I find it scary that they make helicopters and airplanes. I hope they aren't using the same advanced technology in those as they are in DCC decoders. .
Here's a couple of pics of an MRC sound decoder taken out of a brand new Athearn SD60i about a year or so ago. It looks like a blind person constructed it and looks like it could fall apart if you sneezed on it.
Here's a pic of the Soundtraxx that replaced it:
Now from the MRC site they state "MRC's Model Railroad decoders are world renowned for their highest quality, brilliant design and most importantly, their dependability."
This is the reason for the MRC bashing and it's nothing against the users or user groups.