I am looking to take my first step into DCC. What do you think about Bachmann's Dynamis system for HO or N scale?
I have never used the Dynamis system but from various reviews I have seen, I would not get it. I settled on the Digitrax Super Empire builder and am quite happy with it
Robert, I have been using a Dynamis for almost a year. Based on my experience It is ok if: 1) You are going to happy with an IR connection that is not consistently reliable much beyond 6 feet. 2) Satisfied with generally keeping the remote unit pointed at the main unit’s receiver both vertically and horizontally. 3) Get it at a very low price, because it is essentially a dead end system that has compatibility problems with its “can be used with” booster and auto-reverser. Bob
Ok. I guess I will keep looking. The next system I was looking at was NCE powercab. Maybe I should read one of the DCC books advertised in MR.
A couple of sites that will help you understand DCC http://www.wiringfordcc.com/index.htm http://www.mainerailroads.org/dccinfo/index.html
Hi Robert, I have several DCC systems that I use, mostly for modules. My HO module club uses Digitrax' Super Chief (I personally have a Big Boy system plus a UT1 throttle), my On30 module club uses Lenz System 100, plus I also have an Atlas Commander system that was manufactured for Atlas by Lenz, but has now been discontinued for several years. Additionally, I also use both the MRC and NCE systems when I visit the home layouts of various of friends, and all of those systems seem to work well. Unfortunately, I have no personal experience with the Bachmann EZ Command that or their Dynamis systems, but I do know of at least one large On30 module club in Texas that has been using the EZ Command system for several years now and is quite satisfied with it. I prefer using my Lenz over my Digitrax and feel it seems simpler, though I still keep the owner's manuals handy when using any system. I have been considering getting an NCE PowerCab to use with my N scale T-trak modules (as well as my new TT scale tabletop modules), just because it is such a compact system and it's setup is so simple & quick. However, at this point, I can't justify buying any more DCC systems, so I've just been using my Lenz 100, which is overkill, and seems like a lot of equipment to lug around. If you are looking at the PowerCab for a small to medium home layout, I think it's a good choice that probably offers the best bang for your buck, since the street price is only about $150 plus shipping. Another thing to consider is which system might be sold or in use locally, since that can be a good source of support if you need it. As for DCC books, it seems to me that while they can be useful, frequently the information can be out of date by the time they come off the printing press. There are some web groups for all of the various systems that can be helpful and probably will be more up to date. Whichever system you decide to go with (other than MRC since they won't reveal or release their source code to third parties), consider getting the appropriate computer interface (or a SPROG programming unit) along with JMRI's DecoderPro software to do your programming, JMRI's graphic interface makes this task a lot easier. Good luck, Bill in FtL
Robert To get a good feel for the different DCC systems go try as many different ones at home layouts, club layouts & your LHS. You'll get a better "hands on" feel that way. Each system has their Yahoo Group Forum so check those out to get a feel for the kinds of problems each has. Here's a link to Marcus' DCC for Dummies: http://www.members.optusnet.com.au/nswmn2/DCC.htm#BoosterWhen Most of my MR friends including myself use NCE & don't regret it at all. And know a few Digitrax users who wished they didn't have it. Used an IR system once trying to run an ore train w/ helpers. We ended up string lining the train w/ cars going everywhere! LOL
Guys, thanks for all the input and info. Getting ready to go on vacation to NC. Will check recommendations when I get back.
