I just got my second DCC Sound locomotive and I plan to be getting a DCC controller. What would be a good DCC controller to start with?
The “best” DCC system is the one that YOU like best! Each system has its advantages and disadvantages. Ergonomics come into play as well. My suggestion would be to visit other DCC users and try out what they use. Have them show you how to acquire and dispatch locos, set up consists, and maybe some simple programming. Again, make sure to try out more than one brand system. I wouldn’t go the “what everybody else uses” route as everybody does NOT use it. One of the most popular systems is also the least user-friendly of the bunch. I also would not purchase one of the “entry level” systems like the Bachmann EZ Command as you will quickly outgrow it and need to replace it with another system. Many makers of large systems also offer small “starter” systems that can be expanded into a larger system as your needs grow. I would also look at a system that offers a Wi-Fi connection as anyone with a smart device in their pocket will have a wireless throttle they can use on your layout. This approach will be much cheaper than purchasing multiple wireless throttles for layout guests to use. I have participated in several large operating sessions using Digitrax, NCE and MRC DCC systems. All worked just fine with the major differences being user friendliness and throttle ergonomics. Both Digitrax and MRC offer Wi-Fi connections. Each Digitrax Wi-Fi box allows 4 smart device throttles to be in use simultaneously. The MRC Wi-Fi box allows 8.
At the risk of being flamed, I will briefly discuss my own experiences, likes and dislikes of the three major brand systems I have used, as follows:
Digitrax – Hands down the most popular brand. However, I think the real reason for its popularity is that Digitrax offered the first systems capable of running large club layouts. Thus, clubs purchased Digitrax sys
I would want to also check out to see what systems are being used by others in your area. The best support group, next to a factory on the phone are those in your area. If there are clubs around you, see what they are using and why.
Years ago I made inquiries between NCE and MRC. Price was not the issue as I knew I wanted wireless. I chose NCE for the ease of use. I have the NCE Powerhouse Pro-R system as well as a Power Cab System. I’ve also tried the Digitrax at a friend where you can control 2 engines from the one cab without recalling up the other engine. Also, shop around for the best price, don’t go by MSRP. There are a number of reliable places to buy from, both online and a LHS.
Good luck on your choice.
Neal
Hi Sonictrainguy51:
Hornblower has given you a very thorough review of the three main systems so I needn’t repeat what he said, however I will put my vote behind NCE. I have an NCE Power Cab at home and my club uses Digitrax. I far prefer the NCE system. It is intuitive and the throttles are easy to understand and use. The Digitrax throttles are very poorly designed and they require that you keep a lot more information in your head than the NCE system does. Of course, over time anyone can learn to operate the Digitrax throttles comfortably, but NCE has a much smaller learning curve. You will be operating trains easily within 1/2 hour of opening the box. Maybe less.
[2c]
Dave
Edit: I have not operated an MRC system.
I have a MRC prodigy express. I like it alot. Only drawback is access to only 15 functions. I plan on upgrading to the prodigy avanced controler for access to more functions. Even after having to purchase the advance hand set, it comes in at a lower price point than the other ‘starter’ systems.
I have a smaller shelf layout, that I am expanding…this unit suits my needs quite well.
I am sure you will hear more information from people with alot more experience than me. Just offering my opinion on the unit I know.
Try all the throttles to see which one you like best. Throttles are NOT interchangeable. You can’t use a Digital throttle on NCE or MRC, so make sure you like the throttle before you buy the system.
Some years ago I bought the NCE Power Cab for home. I only run three sound locos.
I had a chance to try the Digitrax starter at a local hobby shop also but did not not like the hand controller.
Rich
I’d also suggest you check out the Roco “z21” system. Can be used with wired controllers or via wifi (comes with its own router) with iPhones, Android phones, iPads, or Android tablets. Even with a computer running the software under emulation.
To see it in action, visit YouTube and search for “z21” …
The good news is that, other than the underperforming “entry-level” systems, every DCC system is very good and you will be happy with it.
I have to second Roco’s z21. I had an NCE Power Cab before and while it was a perfectly capable system, the z21 is what I would call a more “up to date” system.
It has built in wi-fi without any additional components and the more expensive black Z21 even has Loconet built in so any Digitrax throttles are compatible as well.
The only downside is that Roco being a European company, obviously shipping from Europe could be expensive. But occasionally they come up for sale in the US on eBay and there are American dealers.
wm #734 wrote: “The only downside is that Roco being a European company, obviously shipping from Europe could be expensive. But occasionally they come up for sale in the US on eBay and there are American dealers.”
I bought the “white” “z21” (little “z”) from a place called “DM toys” in Germany. Price was very reasonable (99 Euro) and they only charged 10 Euro to ship it all the way over here.
I picked up the TP Link router (pre-configured for the z21 setup) from an American firm.
The z21 (from Europe) will have a German-type plug. I bought a 3rd-party power supply, but the power supply that comes with it can be used by buying a Euro-to-USA converter plug (very cheap).
I went with Digitrax about 5 years ago. If I was starting over, I’d look very hard at the new ESU system with the Wifi throttles.
It’s really neat to see that the Roco z21/Z21 systems are getting some recognition in the states.
I really, really like it!
hornblower gave you a great list and all the info is great, with 1 exception. NCE is actually cheaper than Digitrax, and they offer, in my opinion, way better software or whatever you want to call it on their throttles for cheaper prices. The reasons you will see NCE recommended is most likey due to the following:
They are cheaper
Their throttles can be handed to a newbie no problem
Good costumer support
Ridiculously easy programming, consisting, aquiring, and function toggling
My club recommended it to me, and they use digitrax
Nice throttle shape
Splendid HUD (thats what I am calling it 'cause why not) on the LCD screen
If you own a powercab and an NCE usb, and have no need for more amps or signal and turnout controls, you are set for life!!! Why? NCE throttles are incredible drop resiliant so they will last for a lifetime and NCE usb’s allow you unlimited Wifi throttles through android or apple devices, as well as programming from your computer and using the other goodies JMRI has to offer. Powercabs are their own command station, booster, and throttle. This means you can take your entire command station to a club with NCE and run trains with it, because it was designed to do that by NCE. Wasn’t that nice of them? As you can tell, I chose NCE, and I will go a decent way to defend it. It is good for novices, novice professionals, and pros. It plays no favorites.
Hello all,
I am a lone wolf modeler so I wasn’t influenced by “What others use”.
The system I chose is a dead-end system. No room for expansion other than adding more throttles.
If I had it to do all over again I would have gone with NCE.
The ergonomics of the controller fits my hand nicely and the placement of the throttle wheel works for me. (I found all of this out after purchasing my current system.)
Hope this helps.
First of all, and I am not using it, there is the Lenz system. No one has mentioned one more consideration, and that is how big is your layout and do you expect that you will be expanding it. If this may be the case, then you should consider buying a bigger system than you need now, so you will not have to invest in anther booster in the future. I started off with a Digitrax Zephyr and switched to the NCE Power Cab.