I am thinking of going to DCC this summer. I am not sure what system to get. Right now I have a very small layout but ambey by fall or next spring I will get a new layout. MY splans for the new layout are. The biggest it will be is a 6x8 with a 6' extension yard. I plan it to be ho scale. The track consists of a continues loop on the outside then have a double crosover with an inside loop with a couple industry sidings and then a rout back acrossed the loops top a yard. I plan to be runing a consist of a GP38-2 and a GP40-2 on the inside for switching and on the out side an SD45 with 2 U boats adn ,abey a GP38-2. What system should I get. No I do not want a Bachmann ez comand, but dynaqmis would be ok if it would be the right thing.
Just curious, Ethan........why would you discount the EZ command system? Have you had previous experience with DCC? with EZ command? Was it a bad experience? EZ command can be a very good system for beginners. I wouldn't rule it out. Our club has been very happy with it for our show layout use, and we are a veteran group. John M
I would suggest that you go to all the DCC manufatures websites and read up on just what they offer. I believe Tony's Train Exchange has a webpage that shows side by side comparison of several brands. I have not been to that site in awhile but I am sure it is still there. What I have read of the Bachman EZ command is what you stated it is too basic for your taste. I am not trying to run it down or influence you. I will state that there alot of cool things that can be done with DCC and it just keeps getting better everyday. I highly suggest that you study all the systems and pick one that you will be able to upgrade at a later date. If you stay with this hobby that is something you will want to do later. Another suggestion is to find the fellows that are close to you and see what they have. If you like what you see you will have a ready source near you to help you with problems. I will help you out as much as I can via Frisco.org. Yahoo also has Groups for every DCC manufacturer out there and these are of great help. You are not that far away from where I live, probably about 60 miles. There is a model railroad meet here in Parsons this next Saturday and Sunday. If you are able to attend it I will let you come to my layout and will show you my system. Let me know if you are able to come. You can get more info on the RR meet at www.cvmrc.com or www.katydays.com No one DCC system is the best choice they all have little differences and most are good. Again I don't think any of us can really help you much unless you do your homework and study up on several systems. Good luck in your studies you are about to embark on an interesting and fun journey. Model Railroading IS WAS and ALWAYS will be fun. DCC just makes it more fun! Bob Wintle MMR Parsons, KS
Howdy, I've operated on the NCE system, own Digitrax system, and use Digitrax in our club. They are good systems. I think most systems are okay these days. Perhaps the important things are will it perform in your era the way you want, e.g., consisting, can you expand it with wireless, infrared, can you connect accessories to the system, e.g., off rail controllers, block controllers, clocks, computers, is it intuitive to use, and can you afford it? Those are the things I looked for when I started out with DCC during it's first year. I haven't been unhappy with it since, and can't imagine running a layout without it. I am building a small dual gauge switching layout at home 2' X 6' using the Timesaver as a guide. It will run on DCC. Have fun, no matter what system you choose. Best regards, mike
Well, I narrowed it down to Empire builder from digitrax, power cab from NCE, Prodigy from MRC and Dynamis from bachmann. I went to modeltrainstuff.com and even there it was still to expencive (got to remember, I'm on a 13 year old buget). Does any one know if the dynamis can easily handel 2 diffrent MU sets? And not power wise, I mean getting the MU going with without getting the head started then going to the next and starting it and so on.
One very important thing you want to know about here. If you ever plan to use computer control on your layout make sure that you buy a system that will read back CV's. (Control Value's). the Empire Builder will not. It is however able to be used as a booster if you decide to get the better DCS100 command station. If you choose Digitrax a better start off the bat would be to purchase the Zephyr. It will read back CV's, while it doesn't have the power tht the Empire builder does it will allow you to try a few more things than the Empire builder will. If you come over to the MR meet on Saturday I can show you a few more things. If you can't make it over this weekend we can schedule a time this summer. I own not only a Zephyr, but a Super Chief and an Empire Builder II. Like I told you before study the systems and think about all the possibilites thta are out there for you in DCC before you buy that first set. There is no need to buy something that you will wish you hadn't. Bob Wintle MMR
I would try to take Mr. Wintle up on his offer to see his system. Nothing like a hands on demonstration to see the plus and minus of a system. My two cent's worth is whatever you chose.. make it wireless
Ok, I have decided to go with the NCE power cab system. It looks like I can get extra power and extra cabs as I get more locos and bigger layouts. Also, Bob I'm still not sure I will be able to come saturday do to my dad needing me in the field. If I do come I'll be sure to find your table.
