What are the best HO scale signals (actual operating and non-operating) on the market today? I know NJ International has very realistic signals.
NJ International has always had good signals. You might also check out the Tomar signals–I’m in the process of replacing my old signal system with the Tomar upper-quadrant semaphores (back-dating as it were) and they’re beautifully made and fully functional. Tomar has a large selection of signals and at quite reasonable prices, considering the quality.
Tom
Try Oragon Rail Supply and Atlas. those are a couple of more that have been good. Kevin
What type of signals are you considering? Do you want them to be operating signals?
Tomar Industries makes a very nice line of metal operating signals including dwarfs, searchlights, semaphores and others.
Besides Tomar Industries, NJ International, Oregon Rail Supply and Atlas, BLMA makes some very nice signals as well including signal bridges and cantilever signal bridges.
Rich
Remember that most of the signals available are just signals. They do not include the sensors and electronics required to make them respond to train motions, etc.
I recently bought an Oregon Rail Supply two-track signal bridge. It didn’t even come with lights, just empty targets. Lights are cheap, and the model is reasonably priced as is. Besides, some of us prefer LEDs, while others like incandescents. I will be wiring this as a simple turnout position indicator, going through a Tortoise switch machine.
There are multiple brands of HO signals. The ‘Best’ one depends on your needs:
- Type of signal - Color Light/Target/Semaphore?
- Type of Lamps - Bulbs or LED?
- If LED - Common Cathode or Common Anode?
- Signal System Logic - Related to the above questions - What type of output can it drive?
Myself, I am using South Bend signals and logic.
Jim Bernier
The BLMA signals look good to me, though I haven’t bought any–I’m waiting for the SP&S style.
Ed