Hello, I am trying to convert my small layout from DC power to DCC. I was wondering what decoders would be good for my Walthers Mainline BNSF SD70ACe, my Athearn CSX Dash 9-44CW, my Athearn BNSF GP35, and my Athearn BNSF AC4400CW. Each of the Athearn locomotives are DCC quick-plug equipped, but I don’t think the Walthers one is. Any input on this will help!
Hi, and [#welcome]
I often visit the page here at TCS or Train Control Systems, which has a pretty good reference on how various locomotives can be fitted with decoders:
https://tcsdcc.com/installations/ho-scale
Now, you don’t have to use a TCS decoder, although they are very good and priced as reasonably as any other brand, but by having a look at how the installation is done will help you decide.
Some Athearn models will accept either the eight-pin rectangular plug or the 9 pin in-line JST plug. Again, looking at the photos may help you decide.
If the locomotive doesn’t have a “quick plug” there are designs which directly replace the size and shape of the original PC board, which might be right for your Walthers loco.
Regards, Ed
Welcome.
I would agree that TCS has very good decoders.
FYI, there is a DCC forum right nearby.
Rich
I also have to agree with Ed and Rich. Although I have all Digitrax so far, I go to the TCS site many times to look up different installations.
TCS also offers “packages” with the decoder, sound and speaker. When your on their site sight, look for the “WOW sound installations”.
Welcome, and good luck.
Mike.
You didn’t tell us if you want sound.
If so, I’ll vote for loksound select direct for the Walthers and loksound select for the others. Some of the online DCC shops aren’t crystal clear, but make sure you are ordering the models loaded with the sounds of your particular engines.
Most people who choose to try several different brands of decoders, regret not standardizing on one.
If you want excellent motor control then I highly recommend TCS. Check there “Installations” tab on their website. That’s where they have their decoder recommendations and list according to manufacturer then locomotive. For motor-only decoders, TCS is my go-to brand.
Tom