Does it matter what kind of controller you have? What is the best kind? Thenks!
You have to make a decision regarding DC (traditional style throttles like MRC http://www.modelrectifier.com/products/trainSound/tech4.asp ) or the new Digital Command Control DCC like Digitrax etc. www.digitrax.com
I see from another thread that you are building a 4 x 8 layout. An inexpensive DC powerpack will very likely do the job for you. DCC is a lot of fun and can enhance the enjoyment of the hobby, but is not essential.
Take at look at this site: http://www.thegmlenterprises.com/
I have been using their throttles (troublefree) for many years.
Cheers
Cliff
http://cliffordconceicao3310.fotopic.net/c328807.html
I have a 5x12 layout, which is still relatively small for HO. (Yeah, right. The wife thinks it’s huge. I feel crowded, though.) Anyway, I find DCC is a great asset for small layouts. With a large layout, DC blocks come rather naturally, but in a small space there just isn’t enough track length to create effective blocks, and you are not likely to feel the need for them, anyway. With DCC, on the other hand, you get all the advantages of big-layout control, and you can pack much more action into the layout without constantly have to deal with engines crossing between blocks every few feet.
Yes - it is very important what kind of controller you have.I am not really sure why anyone would buy a traditional DC throttle contrloller (like MRC) anymore. DCC allows you to run more than one train on the same track which is particularly important when running a small layout with limited trackage. It also allows you to turn the lights on and off, control turnouts, etc. The only drawback to DCC is that the locos and accessories you use must have a decoder inside of them. Although most DCC systems allow you to use one uncoded loco. Many locos today are sold with DCC decoders installed and many have sounds which you can control from the throttle (like Broadway Limited locos). For your size layout I highly recommend the Digitrax Zephyr DCC system. It has won many awards and is a perfect beginner DCC set with lots of future expandability if you need it. Bachmann and Atlas also make low end DCC starter systems but limited expandability (though they are probably cheaper). Hope this helps, good luck!
I remember there being an awesome thread somewhere when someone compared all the major brands DCC hardware and units. If you can find that thread and post, it might help you decide not only on DCC, but your eventual brand choice.
Mike S.