i will be runing approx 3 trains on my layout nothing to fancy. need to know what is a good controler out there for this. but just in case i need more it will already have it or will be upgradeable
Expandable for the future? Look at the Digitrax Zephyr.
–Randy
iceman,
You are going to get as many answers to this question as there are responders. Everyone has a favorite system. Here’s my 2-cents worth.
You made no mention of scale, but that doesn’t enter the picture, really, in your case. Any of the current systems from MRC, Digitrax, NCE, Lenz, Atlas and several other manufactures will meet your needs.
The MRC system, Old Prodigy and Advance Prodigy stand alone. They are not expandable and not even compatible, component wise, with each other.
A good entry level system that is expandable is the Digitrax Zephyr. I have had one for two years and never regretted my purchase. The Atlas system will meet your needs. It is expandable with Lenz components (Lenz makes the Atlas Commander). The entry level systems from Lenz and NCE are full featured like the Zephyr, they offer access to the full 12-functions on modern sound decoders and can be expanded if you need it. I could go on, but I think you get the idea.
Visit the manufacturers websites. Look over their offerings and make your decision based upon your needs and desires.
Tony’s trains and several of the other DCC specialists have websites with comparison tables of the various DCC systems. Check them out. Check your LHS or attend a train show or two. Talk to the vendors, handle the equipment and ask questions.
The address for Tony’s Train Exchange is:
Another good source of DCC information and equipment is:
Take your time, do the research and you will not be disappointed with DCC. It makes a world of difference.
You can see my Digitrax Zephyr installation on my website under the Layout button. The link is in my signature.
Iceman,
really interested in the best of DCC? Check out ZIMO and see what the Model Railroader Magazin thinks of it:
www.trains.com/Content/Dynamic/Articles/000/000/005/646frhoi.asp
Regards,
Art
Zimo Agency of North America
http://www.mrsonline.net/
They are all good. Try them, see which one you like the best.