No problem...I think I just mis-read your other post. I'm looking at the MRC Symphony 77 sound generator product for the boys to use rather than worrying about getting sound enabled decoders for the engines. I will probably go with the NCE Power Cab as well. Hope to make these decisions shortly...
You didn't do too bad with the DD40 auction. Post the link to the 2-8-8-2 auction if, and when you list it..
I just put it in the mail this morning Now I'm sort of flush with money...yikes, that almost never lasts!!
I have two Digitrax systems. Both the Zephyr and the Super Chief. The programming on them are a little tricky to use, so I have changed my programming procedure to use my computer to program the individual engines. My programming track is simply a piece of track laid on a 1x4. I then use alligator clips that I have soldered to some wires; the other ends are then attached to the controller for regular use or a serial port converter for PC programming. Radio Shack is a great resource for clips, male connectors, etc. Anyway, this set-up allows one to only use the running voltage settings on the layout and reserve all programming to the dummy track. As you will find out, voltage and having a programming track are important issues. I don't have the NCE controller system so I cannnot comment on that, but since you have decided to dive into the more complex DCC systems you shouldn't worry too much about which to select. Both have a wonderful reputation, and either system should suit your needs. I think that I would give a minor edge to the Digitrax system simply because you will find more hobby shops carry that manufacturer's line. While "market share" shouldn't be the primary basis for a selection, it should have some input. Also, I have components from most of the major manufacturers and I have not experienced any major problems. That is, I have some NCE decoders and they work fine with my Digitrax controllers and my Bachmann controllers. Overall conclusion? Either Digitrax or NCE would be a good choice. Not much help there, but that SHOULD reduce some of the worries that you have. Oh...one last thing. Digitrax publishes a book called "The Big Book of DCC". This is an excellent resource and applies to ANY manufacturer of DCC products. Good luck and welcome to the world of DCC!!!!! Happy Holidays, John "delljohnb" Baugher
I thought I'd post an update in case anyone has been losing sleep over their advice/input to this thread I sold the LL Heritage 2-8-8-2 (kind of wish I hadn't...but it paid for the DCC system) and the DD40AX. I bought a Digitrax Zephyr system that included a DT300 as well. I managed to finish the layout (I suppose they're never finished) in time for Christmas. I got a MRC Symphony 77 sound system as well. I installed DCC boards in SD40-2 and SD90 Kato's and, with the help of others on this board, got those functioning properly. That got me to Christmas morning which was wonderful. My young boys couldn't contain thier excitement and it's been almost a daily "can we run the trains" since. The sound system keeps my 4-year old happy while my 6-year old runs the Zephyr with no problems. Just before the Holidays I bought a Bachmann Spectrum 2-8-0 on ebay after realizing that a "steamer" would be the real clincher for my kids. Unfortunately, it was DOA. Fortunately, I returned it for a full refund. Then, scrounging around the 'big box of parts and pieces' I got when I re-entered the hobby via craigslist sale I came across this little Bachmann 0-6-0 Prairie steamer. It wouldn't run but figuring I had nothing to lose I took it apart, worked some magic (not really...I had no idea what I was doing), put it back together and made some obvious adjustments to the contact points and viola, she was purring around the track. Ok, it sounds more like a garbage disposal than a purring cheetah but it ran and did so fairly well. Anyway, that little ugly duckling is the star of 6-year old's railroad empire. I have on order a brand new Spectrum 2-8-0 Cosolidation and proper decoder which should improve the prototypical nature of future sessions since that 0-6-0 is always on the mainline Best news is that the bank (wife) has seen the boys spending less time in front of the tv and maybe even (grudgingly and certainly internally) grown somewhat fond of the "project". Looks like a much larger layout is in the future. I suspect this will always be a "winter hobby" as spring will bring all the activities of young kids but lucky for me the winter's here in Iowa are often long and cold. I finally found a positive in that prospect! Anyway, I'm still very much a lurker and advice-seeker here but I just wanted to say again how grateful I am to all of those who posted excellent advice to my questions. I'm certain you have saved me a lot of grief and unnecessary expense as I continue to expand my knowledge of this interesting and immersive diversion. Thanks!!!
Great to hear how the hobby has positively affected your family. Notwithstanding the many facets of enjoying the hobby--and the basic idea of having fun--I think this is what it's all about. Thanks for sharing!
