Never operated with another system so I cannot compare, but I bought an NCE Power Pro wireless and have been very happy with it. Connected to a PC and use JMRI to program and more importantly store decoder configurations. If you're planning to play with decoder configurations I would say the JMRI connection is a must have.
I removed a 5 year old Digitrax system and replaced it with a NCE Power Pro 5 amp system. I should have started with NCE.
BigDaddyIf you haven't run across the term "Arduino" you should do some research. It is way above my pay grade and interests but it might suit yours.
You can get an Arduino Uno clone for 5 or 6 bucks.
I want to jump into DCC. I am a computer nerd and would like full access to all DCC features. I have read that some systems are more complex then others. The more complex, the better for me. Been looking at Digitrax. Any suggestions?
Any suggestions?
It's possible to get into DCC for very little money. Someone has developed an Arduino-based system called DCC++ that can be built for about $30. It's not a scaled down system. You have access to all decoder features.
There's a subforum devoted to DCC++ over at the Trainboard forums.
Steve S
I can't comment on the MRC stuff, zero experience there.
By all accounts NCE seems to win in the easier to understand and get you doing things other than basic CV programming for addresses.
Digitrax is nice and does everything it says it can, although their instruction manuals are garbage. I know firsthand I own a Digitrax setup. With some digging and online resources you can get it all going however.
One thing I will add, I do not know if you are a solo modeler or looking to join a club, but being new to DCC, if going/joining a club is in the cards, you might want to go with the same equipmment they use. Nice to have experienced help when there is a problem or you don't understand something.
IgnatoskyThe more complex, the better for me
If you haven't run across the term "Arduino" you should do some research. It is way above my pay grade and interests but it might suit yours.
Henry
COB Potomac & Northern
Shenandoah Valley
DCC systems are varied as to features & capacities. If you live in the US and there are others in your area, find out what they use. This will give you a good support network. That said:
The above said, while the DCC packets sent out all meet the same standard - The cabs/throttles are not interchangeable between brands. If you are a 'nerd', I would suggest getting into JMRI and attaching your DCC system to a home computer. Programming decoders is so much easier using JMRI(and it is free). You can also break out of the propriatory cab/throttles and use your smart phone as a throttle with JMRI - well worth the time to look into this. All of the above systems support JMRI...
Jim
Modeling BNSF and Milwaukee Road in SW Wisconsin
Pat,
Digitrax and NCE both make very good DCC systems and both have their strong points. I've been using my Power Cab since 2006 and like the interface for its intuitiveness. Others prefer Digitrax for their throttles and features - particularly Loconet.
If possible, it's best to try a system first-hand to see which one appeals to you the most. And only you can determine which one is best for you...
Tom
https://tstage9.wixsite.com/nyc-modeling
Time...It marches on...without ever turning around to see if anyone is even keeping in step.
I recommend the same system as mine, an NCE PH-Pro 5 amp wireless system.
I don't know about complicated, but it is a sophisticated trouble free system that I have owned for 12 1/2 years.
Rich
Alton Junction
Well, not to start a flame war, or to kvetch, but judging by the annoyed posters who swear that Digitrax almost ended their foray into DCC because the manuals were so complicated, I'd say just stop right there and go right in that door...Digitrax. Also, you probably know about loconet...it's wonderfully complex. Gruesome, dark, and mysterious. Abandon all hope, though, if ye enter.
I want to jump into DCC. I am a computer nerd and would like full access to all DCC features. I have read that some systems are more complex then others. The more complex, the better for me. Been looking at Digitrax.
Pat Bandy