My LHS has an Atlas DCC for sale. I cannot locate any comments on the advisability of buying this system. Does anybody have any opinions? Would Digitrax be better?
Confused in Winnipeg
The Atlas system is a relabelled Lenz Compac. Out of the box it is somewhat limited, particularly in the area of function control, but since it is a Lenz system it can be expanded with various Lenz components into a full-featured system.
Besides the Digitrax Zephyr, it is probably the only real starter system that isn’t a dead end should your system grow in the future.
My preference is still for the Zephyr, for the additional functions as well as the fact that you can hook up two old DC power packs to the Zephyr and use them as additional throttles - so if you have an existing DC layout and are converting to DCC, out of the box you can have 2 or 3 throttles for no extra cost.
–Randy
I’m running the Lenz compact, it’s a bit basic, but I’ve been able to control 5 loco’s at the same time! It has 4 functions and headlight on-off. I just got some BLI loco’s and a powerpax from Tony’s, you need the powerpax for programming. Like Randy said I can expand in time and have a full function system.
I love the wireless option, a home cordless phone, plugs into an adaptor and just pu***he buttons for full train control, even turnouts with the right equipment.
I was all set to buy a Digitrax Zephyr but the Lenz was on sale at my local dealer.
Ken.
I use the Atlas system and like it. If it will do all you want to do it may be an OK deal, if it’s cheap enough. All of the components are very nicely made (walk-around throttles, etc.)
But as Randy said the Zephyr is probably the best bet if these two are your choices. The Atlas has problems with BLI sound if you want to get into that (And who wouldn’t?[:)])
If you start adding throttles and other stuff the expense will rise sharply for any system.
Do you like the new MRC?
I am going with the MRC Advance… my LHS was trying to turn me on to the Atlas, but it seemed to be too limited for me & I read the review in MR of the MRC and think that it might be a better choice,