As I sit here and read all these here web sites. Looks like the prodigy is a bare bones sys. with no exspansion avail. Digitrax is generally the cheapest in price of the starter sets. With Lenz making a close run in second place. My question is this, with a layout being in nscale and in a room bout 17x 12 and room fer maybe 5 operators if I am push'n it. What kind of system would I require, I like the idea of wireless throttles and a computer interface. Any input would be appriciated. Adios from texas, and will the UP run some color buy my house instead of the same o same o yella and gray LMAOOOO!! wyatt
I like the NCE, but I would have went for the CVP Products system if they had announced wireless was in the works when I bought mine.
I use the Digitrax Chief with a mix of Digitrax and Zimo decoders. It runs very good and for the future I`m working hard installing a computer based train detection system with several BDL 162 detection units. I`ll also use routes for switching and train moves. But all the trains runs manually because I guess thats the real railroad. Manually controlled locomotives and trains and automation for switches, routes,signals. Stefan Railfan`s Homepage
I have the Lenz Set 100 and I really like it. One of the best features is that you can buy cheap wireless phones to use as wireless throttles. It's a great feature that Lenz came up with. Go talk to Bruce at Litchfield Station . He's got probably the best prices around and he's very knowledgable and more than willing to help you. In my opinion the Lenz Set 90 or Set 100 is the best bang for the buck.
Wyatt, This thread could go on forever, everyone has their own opinion on which DCC system is the best. I own a Lenz, though I have used NCE and it's good as well. Digitrax was too complicated for me to decypher. But if you are an engineer you will be fine. Try out as many brands as you can. Bug your buddies that have DCC and play with them. Thats the best way to find out which throttle you like the best. It all boils down to what's most comfortable in your hand. I really like my $57.00 Lenz wireless throttle. Cheap and it works.
That is the problem, I have no friends that model railroad or even have dcc, So I must pick ya'll brains.lol The Lenz sounds like a deal with the cordless phones, just I hope I dont get a phone call,LMAOO. I had also thought about the EASY DCC from CVP products. The nslhs ( not so local hobby shop, 126 miles away. ) carries them and digitrax and lenz and nce. I just do not want to get over my head , or not enough bang. Thanx for the input so far. adios. wyatt
My experiences are limited to Lenz and Digitrax. I like them both. Lenz the most. But I've never operated a cordless DCC system. I have operated a non-DCC cordless, and it's very nice to have that feature! I'd be looking at not only cost, but what brand has the best selection and availability. Most shops I have been in, that stock DCC, at least have Lenz and Digitrax. (Nothing against other brands.) Boxcab E50
Take the advice above and get in contact with Bruce at Litchfield Station. He helped me out a lot when I was deciding on a system...and he won't just tell you the most expensive one. In my opinion, the Lenz really is the best bang for the buck. Among other things, it has the best warranty (at least between Lenz and Digitrax...those two primary ones that I researched). You can get a side by side comparison of the different systems here. Oh...and the cordless phone...it would have to be a different phone than the one for your house. It's not connected to any phone lines...just the Lenz system.
If the economics of the decision is important, go for best value. If that is not the prime concern, try the different company units to determine which one you like the best. Some are less intuitive than others so I would suggest you take them out for a spin, then make your decision.
Wyatt, Janafam has brougt up a good point. You need to try the different systems out. Unless you are an electrical engineer or an IT professional one really doesn't care what goes on inside the little boxes. The important points you need to look at are: </font> 1. Is it easy for me to; A. program a decoder. B. run a train C. put together and take apart a consist. 2. What does the controller feel like in your hand. A. Are you comfortabe holding it? B. Is it easy to work the controls? C. Do you have to really think about what you want it to do, or do your fingers naturally fall on the right buttons or Knobs? D. Do you want to build the DCC unit as a kit? or do you want to plug and play?</font> Those are the factors that you should be looking at when you are deciding to make your purchase. Keep searching, and keep trying different sytems out. Good Luck
Chris, You have a good point , the way it feels and the controls, That is why I am leaning towards the EASY DCC system. To me the digitrax hand held seems bulky, and the cvp systems seems more high speed low drag...lol As I think about this, why am I putting my self through this, I can wire anything when it comes to block wiring. LOL . The reason I bring this up is it will end up just me running the layout. But DCC I have always wanted to try. The computer interface really has got me intrigued, I dont know much, but if there is a manual , I can learn. The picture that keeps going through my head is SOO freight rolling by on the main and me swutch'n the yard or the many , did I say MANY industries that I plan to have. I have been out the hobby for a long time, and just getting back into it heavy. Rodeo and ranch'n took alot of my time. I just need to make my mind up,,, easier said than done. LMAO Adios all . from texas home of ugly yella and gray locomotives,,, .......wyatt
TTX also has a comparison table which covers more makes than the one above. DCC System Comparison They also have info matrices for decoders and other stuff which might be of interest.
Thanx for all the info and input everybody. It was greatly needed, as I am neophyte when it comes to DCC. Once again, thank you,,,, adios wyatt
One more choice. Go to this web site to check out Zimo. A system without limits especially when it comes to computer control! Running your layout automatically, semi automatically or manual even mixed is a breeze. Or how about running your trains according to their classes or on a time table, automatically? There is also another comparison chart you can study. Good luck with your choice! Art
Art, thanx fer that web page, heck I did a conversion fer US dollars bout had a heart attack. almost 982.00$ us dollars for the n scale starter set. OUCH But thanx for the effort , just a Lil rich fer my blood. Maybe in the future if the beef prices pick up, i might be able to get a system. adios, wyatt
