Bachmann EZ Command comments/complaints

Model Railroader Layouts and layout building
1

Hi all,

As you know, I have been on the market for a dcc system FOREVER. Anyway, how do you all like the bachmann ez command. Your comments and crictisims are greatly appreciated!

2

Derrick,

I presently use the NCE Power Cab. But I started out with Bachmann E-Z Command and used it for a year before switching. Personally, I like the E-Z Command - even with it’s limitations (i.e. 1-amp, no CV access). It was simple to use and operate and it worked well on my 4 x 8 layout.

I have no regrets for starting out on DCC with the E-Z Command:

  1. It was priced right at the time ($53).
  2. It allowed me to get my DCC “feet wet” for a small investment.
  3. I was able to control up to 3 locomotives at a time - including 8 sound functions.
  4. It gave me time to save up for, read up on, and decide what higher level DCC system I wanted to graduate to.

Even with the E-Z Command’s “limitations”, to me it’s still more fun and more realistic than running trains on DC.

Tom

3

DERRICK

Tom is right,I have an EZ command for a starter, and like it for now,I installed an Soundtraxx systeam in an IHC 2-8-2,and like it !! it works well with all the diffrent sounds IE bell, whistle,air,steam let off ,chiff and so on!

JIM[tup][2c]

4

Thanks guys. I think I’m gonna go with an ez command or one of those roco systems (puts out 3.6 amps w/o a booster).

5

I like the EZ Command because it lets me run DCC and DC locos on the same track. Try that with the MRC produst, can’t be done. For sound, I connected a MRC diesel sound box to it and set out speakers at strategic points around the layout. Eventually, I’ll get something better but for now, the EZ Command works great.

6

All DCC systems have some operational limitations. You should consider whether the limitations of a particular system are “show stoppers” for you, among other criteria.

In Bachmann’s case, the limitation which bothers the most people is the inability to read/write CVs (configuration variables) to adjust locomotive performance. You are pretty much stuck with the manufacturer’s defaults on the encoder unless you have a system that can at least write CVs. This is a show stopper for me for Bachmann, but may not be for you.

my thoughts, your choices
Fred W