Looking to buy a dcc unit. Trying to decide on Digitrax or North Coast. I would like to know what one you all prefer. Im useing it for N scale
Welcome to trainboard. I use Digitrax for myself. I have read it is not the easiest (it is the only DCC I know so I cant compare). I have enjoyed it very much. I am using the Radio equiped chief. I can address more locos and devices than I would ever own (thousands) and the radio throttle is cool (complete freedom to move with the train). I do not know a thing about North Coast so it is difficult for me to compare. I would suggest if possible to play with both systems and see which you are most comfortable with and use that knowledge in your decision making process.
I have run both systems. There are things I like about each of them. It is hard for me to say why I like one over the other but they both are good. I did by a NCE system. It had a lot to do with the other people using DCC around me and who I had available to ask question. I thought that NCE was a little more user friendly when learning DCC lingo and very easy to program with. Some of the Digitrax manuals are hard to follow. You will find this out as you buy some of there other DCC components and yes they will work with any system you buy.
I have a Digitrax SuperChief Radio system. Before that, I had (still have) a Digitrax SuperEmpire set. Overall, I am very happy with it. I must say in reading about NCE systems, I bet I would have been just as happy. Also, I would look at Lenz too. You will get equal enjoyment out of either system. However, I must say your enjoyment will be proportional to how much you read and understan the actual system you choose.
keithw: Welcome to the Trainboard. I suggest that you look at all the major manufacturuers of DCC equipment so you can become well informed about what's available in the marketplace today. You should also try a system before you decide to make a purchase. Stay cool and run steam....
KeithW ... Welcome aboard! I guess the biggest questions I have are: what are your intended uses? and what are your experiences? Harold
Expanding on my previous response.... Do you have a home layout and is that your main concern? I chose a Digitrax SuperChief Radio system.... WHY??? The main reason was that our N Trak club uses Digitrax and I got to have some hands on time trying it out. After that, an important reason was that I could use my throttles easily on our club layout (mainly public N Trak shows). [This was important as I had no home layout] DCC can lead to considerable expense... try before you buy! Harold
Im working on building a N scale layout . Right now im working on a track plan. It will be 5 feet by 10 feet L shaped and 3 feet wide. and im looking for some help on a good plan. I had a ho layout about 10 years ago and sold it and it was dc and I was go dcc on this one
You could probably get buy with a cheaper system than I have.... I guess the next question would be how many operators do you want / expect to have at one time? Harold
Keithw: Look into any of the high end systems from Lenz, Digitrax or NCE. I would make a list of your needs. Here is a chart comparing the DCC systems : DCC systems Comparisons Chart Stay cool and run steam......
Always plan for future expansion...... whether on your layout, club layout, or whatever you might do!
