Dave's response says it all...well, almost all. The only thing I would add is that, everything else being equal, think seriously of getting the system that most of your model railroad friends and/or your local club uses. Those operators can be your local support team.
Everyone is going to say the 'best' is the one they're using, so there is no true answer to the question.
davidmbedardThe answer is clear.....MINE!
I kinda thought so.
Alton Junction
Welcome!
As you may know, there are a number of systems that sell fairly well. I narrowed my search to the two that are probably most popular, NCE and Digitrax as you mentioned. I had a leaning toward Digitrax since they have quite a number of auziliary components. But I then learned that aux items such as subdistrict circuit breakers and auto-reversers can be from others as the compatibility standards enable them working together. So I was able to focus first on which basic system I preferred. I decided mostly because I liked one throttle better than the other. Suggest to try them at a vendor who has both to operate. Have him show you how to select a loco, run it, operate the usual functions, change the address, form a consist to get an idea of how the thing works, how speed is adjusted, etc. Better yet, have him point out the main differences in how they are used for usual activities. Including how to switch from adjusting one loco to another that is simultaneously operating.
You probably can't go wrong, so just get enough insight to have a preference. Of course, if in a club (or have a helpful buddy) that uses one of the two, that's a significant consideration.
An aside. You probably will find the forum quite useful. If you want to find more threads on this or other subjects, you can try the "search the community" spot in the right column. But it is not the best, so often a goggle search starting with "site: cs.trains" (add your subject) works better. And note that if reading a thread you want to find later, if you are engaged in it you can find it later under "your discussions" under your name on the right. Clicking the "add to favorites" bubble near the title of other threads will add them to your "favorites" list under your name.
Paul
Modeling HO with a transition era UP bent
I have not run on any other system so I cannot compare. I purchased an NCE Radio Power Pro and have been very happy with it. One thing I strongly recommend is the JMRI interface. Makes decoder programming and storage of info so simple.
My $.02
Mark
Dave,
Thanks for such a detailed reply. Much appreciated!!
pathman What is the best DCC System? Digitrax? NCE? Other?
What is the best DCC System? Digitrax? NCE? Other?
Unfortunately, that does not exist so you are dependent upon the subjective opinions of other model railroaders. I use the NCE PH-Pro 5 amp wireless system, and I love it. But others use Digitrax, Lenz, MRC, whatever. Good luck in your search.
Rich
Welcome Pathman! Enjoy the Greatest Hobby in the World!
hon30critter 'Best' is a subjective issue when it comes to DCC systems. While there probably aren't any 'bad' DCC systems out there, there are differences in what some systems are capable of vs others. The real question is "what is best for you?". For that to be answered you need to consider a couple of questions first: Dave
'Best' is a subjective issue when it comes to DCC systems. While there probably aren't any 'bad' DCC systems out there, there are differences in what some systems are capable of vs others. The real question is "what is best for you?". For that to be answered you need to consider a couple of questions first:
Dave
Hi Pathman!
Welcome to the forums!
- How many locomotives do you foresee running at the same time? That is not necessarily a function of layout size. You could have a mid sized layout where you want to have a dozen locomotives idling in the yard as well as three or four trains running simultaniously. That would require a system with larger amp capability (5 amps or so). Or, you could have a massive layout where there will only ever be a couple of trains on the tracks at once, in which case a smaller system will do just fine (1.5 amps).
- Do you want feedback from turnouts and other stationary devices? Digitrax is good in this area.
There are other considerations too, such as:
- One of the biggest determinants of what is best for you is ergonomics. For example, Digitrax has top of the line systems but some people aren't comfortable with the way the throttles are laid out. Those people tend to prefer NCE or MRC throttle set-ups.
- Expandability is also something to take into account if you are planning on a large layout in the future. For example, NCE's Power Cab is an excellent and affordable starter system which will easily handle 3 or 4 modern locomotives, but it can be expanded down the road to handle large layouts.
- One thing I would caution against is getting a system that does not allow for easy programming. I believe that some of the MRC starter systems are limited in their ability to read back CVs. As you get more and more into programming that would become a significant issue. Also, some systems may require a separate booster to program certain decoders. My NCE Power Cab does not.
The most common suggestion when this question comes up, which it does frequently, is to get your hands on a few different systems and try them out for yourself. If there is a local club that is perhaps the best way to meet people who would be willing to let you try their various systems. Alternately, if you have a LHS (Local Hobby Store) they can likely show you different systems. You can also see different systems in use at train shows and most people would be happy to talk to you about the systems they are using.
I chose the NCE Power Cab and I am very happy with it. In fact I think you will find that almost everybody with DCC is happy with whatever system they chose, so you really can't go too far wrong.
I'm just a dude with a bad back having a lot of fun with model trains, and finally building a layout!