Hi,
What is the general consensus on the quality of the pre-installed decoders in N scale Atlas locomotives?
Comments and opinions greatly appreciated.
I was just involved in a rather lively discussion on this very topic. The general outcome was that most N-scalers prefer an aftermarket decoder (such as Digitrax) to the Lenz decoder that comes in the Atlas DCC models because the pre-installed Lenz decoders have less functionality than an aftermarket decoder and raise the cost of the locomotive more than the price of a more robust aftermarket decoder. A few modelers also reported that they have experienced the Lenz decoders dropping their memory from time to time. Jamie
Glad you asked. I have four Atlas models (two mp15s and two GP-40s). All were preloaded w/ DCC. The mp15 both smoked within three months. Totally re-motored due to a wiring problem and replaced with TCS decoders. One of those TCS also smoked and one is still operational. I replaced with a Digitrax and that guy really runs good now. Both of the GP-40s are running on the original decoders but performance is rather lame. Very jerky.
Now I will say my environment isn’t the best (it is on the cool side). But on the other hand, my Kato units have always run tops, even with MRC decoders in them.
Like the previous post mentioned, I would go with after market decoders.
Peter
I think the quality of the deocders is fine, but they do lack some features. They do not have Bemf compensation and, the biggest problem to me is, they are not “silent runnig”, meaning they cause the motor to produce an audible buzz, especially at low speeds.
Thanks for the replies. I guess that reinforces what I had read elsewhere.
I have two Kato SD40-2’s with Digitrax decoders and a Digitrax DCC system. Smooth, reliable and a joy to run. My other locomotives (Micro-trains etc) are waiting for their Digitrax decoders. I get concerned I’ll mess-up while installing decoders so was looking for the pre-installed option.
However, I’ll just keep at it and learn as I go.
Many thanks.