I suspect that many existing Zephyr users will look at this and shrug, because we already know what a capable system the current DCS50 is, but I don't think for one minute that this updated version is anything other than an attempt to counter some of the spec comparisons that a new prospective user might make when comparing systems that are on the market.
The ambivalent shrug will be particularly true of anyone that has added a DT402 throttle to the system since you get 29 functions and a recall stack along with the walk around capability.
However, I think it is a welcome update to a system that has been around for quite a while now. Both NCE and Digitrax have a delicate juggling match on their hands. The need to be competitive with the entry level system has to be balanced by the need to not totally destroy your higher end product by making the entry too capable. I think both are doing a decent job of it.
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
I have the current Zephyr, with two walkaround throttles. I can run four or five locos, which is all I can keep track of anyway. That's with a half a dozen sound equiped locos sitting around the layout rumbling away. If I muted or removed the excess locos, I could probably run another train. The only advantage I can see with the upgraded Zephyr is the additional functions, which I can live without.
The Zephyr has full power programming too. That's what "Blast Mode" is.
I've never had anything I couldn't program, and I actually haven't used the "blast mode". Nor do I own a booster - and I won't ever. If a decoder needs a booster, there's a design issue with the decoder.
And with 20 loco capacity, the ONLY difference is 5 amps vs 3 amps.
--Randy
Modeling the Reading Railroad in the 1950's
Visit my web site at www.readingeastpenn.com for construction updates, DCC Info, and more.
The photo of it looks like it is essentially the same form factor with an extra row of buttons for the extra features. So walk around capability would come by adding a throttle like the UT or DT.
It doesn't say whether they are moving to a handheld throttle but it sounds like they are not. That would still be a difference with teh Zephyr.
Engineer Jeff NS Nut Visit my layout at: http://www.thebinks.com/trains/
This makes me wonder if they will finally do away with or alter the Super Empire Builder set as there is almost zero reason to get that over this updated Zephyr. No one is talking prices yet on the new Zephyr Xtra but it is listed on two sites I found, for only $20 more than the usual selling price of the existing Zephyr. That plus a DT402 would be less than the Super Empire Builder set and give you TWO throttles, one walkaround and one stationary. 20 locos, close enough to 22 (and if the old Zephyr is any indiction - it will be 22 anyway), dedicated program track - REALLY no reason for the SEB other than for those wanting to add a booster and throttle - the set still costs less than a DT402 + DB150 purchased seperately.
If they offer an upgrade I might send one back (I actually have 2 Zephyrs now, although one is just the console, no power supply). Otherwise, I doubt I will upgrade, the 10(12) loco limit doesn;t affect me and the 2.5 amps is enough for my accessory decoders which is all the Zephyr actually powers. And I have yet to have a need for functions over F12 - I have a DT402 but my only sound locos don't use above F12 anyway.
However, this update makes the Zephyr a far more compelling choice to the number counters - 29 functions, 3 amps, 20 locos/20 throttles puts it well above the other starter sets on the market. Combined with incomparable Loconet and the 'never throw anythign away' complete upgradability - going to be hard to recommend anything else to a beginner.
It is now on the Digitrax web site www.digitrax.com
A new version of the Digitrax Zephyr is coming out. Subtle mentions are popping up on the web along with some tell-tale close out sales on the current model. Looks like features have been added to catch up with some of the competitors, as well as increased power, and support for more locos and throttles. Here is a list taken from the web. It is not on the Digitrax web site yet.
Xtra Features
Simple to use
Large speed control knob
Lever for forward, reverse and brake
Full numeric keypad
Controls stationary decoder addresses
Control 29 functions for use with sound
Recall feature lets you scroll through locos
Mute Key
Quick Start Guide
2 & 4 digit addressing
Read/write programmer included
Xtra Power
3 amps to run more locos
Universal power supply included
Run up to 20 addresses at once
Run up to 20 throttles at a time
Operate both analog and digital locos
Blast Programming mode for sound decoders
Expandable system lets your customers grow and expand their layouts
It will be interesting to see if older units can be upgraded as I would be most interested in the 20 loco support, the current 10 is the most limiting thing for me on my DCS50