I sit at a crossroads in my modeling. I've decided to pick up a new Atlas GP38 in N scale when they become available. I've also decided that since I'm starting over in all my modeling, it's time to make the switch to DCC and buy a decoder when I get an engine. With that said, I'm wondering which path to take. I have the option of getting a DCC ready engine now and then putting a Digitrax DN146A decoder in it waiting a few months (*SIGH* ) and getting a factory installed Lenz LE064XF (a variation on the LE062XF). Not knowing much about DCC, I approach this with a little apprehension. The fact that I could have the engine by the end of the month with a Digitrax decoder notwithstanding, which is the better route, Lenz or Atlas? I am going to assume (And we all know what happens when you assume...) that if I chose the Digitrax decoder I'll be locked into their system and same with the Lenz even though DCC is supposed to be across the board compatible. Can anyone provide any insight into the two systems? Which line has the better system? I don't plan on having a very big layout, maybe five or six engines tops. Any help would be much appreciated.
I would get the loco with the decoder instaled. Reasons, Eaiser, cheaper, less frustrations for a beginner. Really it doesnt matter which decoder you use. As long as they are NMRA compatable they will work with ALL systems. I use the MRC system and decoders, but I have used a Digitrax decoder in one of my locos. The atlas decoder will work with the Lense system, and vicaversa. Pick which control system you prefer, and then use whichever decoder best fits the loco.HTH..... Mike
I am a digitrax owner and user, but given the choice I would go with the Lenz. You don't have to worry which one you put in concerning DCC; you won't be locked into a system until you buy the "command station" and booster, et al.
I would go with the Lenz decoder for sure! I have several Atlas units, and do to a mistake by both Atlas and Digitrax all there units preform quite poorly when you putin a Digitrax decoder. It seems that the wipers and the size of the conatct area on the decoder are all too small, so the locos have over mall poor preformance, sometimes stalling, or not running at all! In terms of operating system, my personal preference is Digitrax, but that is mainly becuase of availibility locally (or lack there of....they are soon to increase their factory size by 400%!) Happy Railroading! Dane
All of the posts give good advice. I use Digitrax decoders in my Atlas and Kato N scale engines and operate them with an MRC200 unit (for now). If it is important for you, the Digitrax DN146 is a four function FX decoder, i.e. you can hook up additional lights like Mars or ditch lights and run these separately from the headlights. I know this is tough in N scale, but others have done it. The Lenz is likely to have only 2 outputs (front and rear lights: LEDs built in to the board) that support Rule 17 dimming, but no other lighting effects. The Digitrax board comes with the front and rear LEDs in place, and has solder pads to add additional wiring for other lights, if desired. It is true that the Digitrax boards have been problematic in terms of poor contact with the motor leads and frame, but can be fixed easily. For beginners, I would recommend buying preinstalled decoders. Any problems will be Atlas's and not yours!!!
All the posts above give accurate and good advice. Let me add a couple of points: <UL TYPE=SQUARE>Buying an already installed decoder is the easiest. Do that for the first couple of engines, that way you'll know how they're suspose to work. Putting in your own decoder teaches you lots about electrical and physical construction. Gradually you'll want to do your own. Read my post great article of June 1 in this forum and build the test stand if you're going to do self installation. It is invaluable! LOL[/list] [ 19 June 2001: Message edited by: ChrisDante ]
Has the 2001 situation changed with ATLAS GP40 lattest run? Hi, I have just digged into this 2001 post. OK, buying an ATLAS decoder-equipped GP40 would be easier/cheaper than buying the DCC-ready version plus adding a Digitrax mobile decoder. Now, as I am a SP/Rio Grande fan, and I may want to add mars light to the Rio Grande GP40. Actually I don't know if they were still operated between 1990 - 1996 (my modelled period). In 2006, which factory-equipped decoder comes on the lattest Nscale ATLAS GP40 to be released very soon? is it still Lenz LE064XF with only front and rear light possibility? or is there now a possibility to add working mars light for my Rio Grande operation later on the ATLAS decoder? If not, is the Digitrax DN163A0 N Scale Mobile Decoder my answer ? Thanks for your help.
The decoder in an Atlas GP 40 is a new decoder that Lenz makes for Atlas. You also can use the Digitrax DN 163A0. A better choice would be the TCS decoders for Atlas diesels like the GP -40 I'm fairly positive that the factory installed decoder has lighting options. I usually switch them out to a custom decoder of my choosing. Stay cool and run steam....
